Nursing Elites

1. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respirations of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

2. A child with a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome is being treated with corticosteroids. What is an important nursing consideration?

• A. Monitor for signs of infection
• B. Monitor blood pressure
• C. Monitor for hyperglycemia
• D. Monitor for hypertension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a child with nephrotic syndrome is undergoing treatment with corticosteroids, it is crucial to monitor for signs of infection. Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, increasing the child's susceptibility to infections. Monitoring for signs of infection allows for early detection and prompt intervention, reducing the risk of complications. While monitoring blood pressure (choice B) is important in nephrotic syndrome, it is not the most immediate concern when the child is on corticosteroids. Monitoring for hyperglycemia (choice C) is relevant in corticosteroid therapy, but the priority in this scenario is to watch for signs of infection. Monitoring for hypertension (choice D) is important in nephrotic syndrome but is not the most critical consideration when the child is on corticosteroids.

3. What is the first action a healthcare provider should take before administering a tube feeding to an infant?

• A. Irrigate the tube with water.
• B. Offer a pacifier to the infant.
• C. Slowly instill 10 mL of formula.
• D. Place the infant in the Trendelenburg position.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to offer a pacifier to the infant before administering tube feeding. Offering a pacifier helps stimulate the sucking reflex, preparing the infant for feeding and promoting digestion and comfort. Irrigating the tube with water (Choice A) is not typically the first action before tube feeding and may not be necessary. Slowly instilling formula (Choice C) should only be done after the infant is prepared for feeding. Placing the infant in the Trendelenburg position (Choice D) is not necessary and may not be recommended for tube feeding.

4. The child has been admitted for a sickle cell crisis. What would the nurse do first to provide adequate pain management?

• A. Administer a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) as ordered.
• B. Use guided imagery and therapeutic touch.
• C. Administer meperidine as ordered.
• D. Initiate pain assessment with a standardized pain scale.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Initiating pain assessment with a standardized pain scale is crucial in managing pain effectively during a sickle cell crisis. This step allows the nurse to objectively evaluate the child's pain level and tailor the pain management plan accordingly. Administering medication without a proper assessment could lead to inappropriate pain management. Using guided imagery and therapeutic touch may be beneficial as adjunct therapies but should not replace the initial pain assessment. Meperidine is not typically the first-line choice for pain management in sickle cell crisis due to its potential for neurotoxic metabolites.

5. A mother confides to the nurse that she is thinking of divorce. Which suggestion by the nurse would help minimize the effects on the child?

• A. Tell the child together using appropriate terms.
• B. Reassure the child that no one loves him more than his parents.
• C. Engage in special activities with the child to compensate for the divorce.
• D. Keep your feelings to yourself and maintain a positive facade with the child.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In situations of divorce, it is crucial for both parents to inform the child together using age-appropriate language. This approach helps maintain consistency and clarity for the child, reducing confusion and anxiety. Choice B is incorrect because reassurance should not be solely focused on love but on explaining the situation appropriately. Choice C may inadvertently send the message that the divorce is the child's fault or requires compensation. Choice D is incorrect as children benefit from understanding and processing emotions in a healthy manner, rather than having them kept hidden.

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