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 healthcare provider is assessing a child with suspected pneumonia. What clinical manifestation is the provider likely to observe?

• A. Cough
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Rash
• D. Vomiting

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A cough is a common clinical manifestation of pneumonia. Pneumonia often presents with symptoms such as cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. The inflammation and infection in the lungs lead to the characteristic cough observed in patients with pneumonia. Diarrhea, rash, and vomiting are not typically associated with pneumonia and are less likely to be observed in a child with this condition.

3. A nurse is assessing a 3-month-old infant with suspected pyloric stenosis. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Projectile vomiting
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Constipation
• D. Abdominal distension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Projectile vomiting is the hallmark clinical manifestation of pyloric stenosis in infants. In pyloric stenosis, the muscle surrounding the opening between the stomach and the small intestine thickens, leading to obstruction. This obstruction causes forceful, projectile vomiting, which is typically non-bilious (does not contain bile) and occurs after feedings. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal distension are not typical symptoms of pyloric stenosis.

4. What should be included in the teaching plan for parents of an infant diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

• A. Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.
• B. Testing for PKU is done immediately after birth.
• C. Treatment for PKU includes lifelong dietary management.
• D. PKU is transmitted as an autosomal recessive trait.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.' Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that results in the inability to metabolize phenylalanine properly. Without proper dietary management, high levels of phenylalanine can lead to severe mental retardation and other neurological problems. Therefore, educating parents about the importance of early and consistent treatment to prevent mental retardation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect because testing for PKU is typically done shortly after birth, not immediately. Choice C is incorrect because treatment for PKU primarily involves strict dietary management to control phenylalanine intake, not lifelong medications. Choice D is incorrect because PKU is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, not as an autosomal dominant gene.

5. At 7 AM, a nurse receives the information that an adolescent with diabetes has a 6:30 AM fasting blood glucose level of 180 mg/dL. What is the priority nursing action at this time?

• A. Encourage the adolescent to start exercising.
• B. Ask the adolescent to obtain an immediate glucometer reading.
• C. Inform the adolescent that a complex carbohydrate such as cheese should be eaten.
• D. Tell the adolescent that the prescribed dose of rapid acting insulin should be administered.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rapid acting insulin will help lower the elevated blood glucose level quickly.

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