Nursing Elites

1. A 12-year-old child had an appendectomy 18 hours ago. The nurse is monitoring the child for pain control. Which of the following tools is most appropriate for assessing the child’s pain?

• A. FLACC scale
• B. Numeric scale
• C. NIPS scale
• D. FACES scale

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The Numeric scale is the most appropriate tool for assessing pain in older children, like a 12-year-old, as they can comprehend and use numbers to indicate their pain levels accurately. The FLACC scale is typically used for nonverbal or preverbal children. The NIPS scale is designed for neonates and infants. The FACES scale is more commonly used in younger children who may have difficulty expressing their pain in other ways.

2. What is the best indicator of fluid balance in a pediatric patient?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Heart rate
• C. Weight
• D. Urine output

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Weight is the most accurate indicator of fluid balance in pediatric patients. Changes in weight reflect shifts in body fluid levels more directly compared to other parameters. Blood pressure and heart rate may be affected by various factors other than fluid balance. While urine output is important in assessing renal function, it may not provide a comprehensive picture of overall fluid balance in pediatric patients.

3. A child is admitted with suspected pyloric stenosis. Which of the following should be included in the plan of care?

• A. Monitor for signs of metabolic acidosis
• B. Observe for projectile vomiting
• C. Provide large, infrequent feedings to allow for rest
• D. Place the infant in a supine position after feeding

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Observe for projectile vomiting.' Projectile vomiting is a classic sign of pyloric stenosis, caused by obstruction at the pylorus. Choice A is incorrect as metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis, often occurs due to the loss of hydrochloric acid from persistent vomiting. Choice C is incorrect as frequent, small feedings are preferred to prevent overloading the stomach. Choice D is incorrect as placing the infant in an upright position after feeding can help reduce reflux.

4. What is the primary treatment for Kawasaki disease?

• A. Corticosteroids
• B. Intravenous immunoglobulin
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Antivirals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). IVIG is the primary treatment for Kawasaki disease, an acute vasculitis that mainly affects children under 5 years old. Early administration of IVIG is crucial as it helps reduce the risk of coronary artery aneurysms, which is the most serious complication of Kawasaki disease. Corticosteroids (Choice A) are not the primary treatment for Kawasaki disease and are not recommended due to potential adverse effects. Antibiotics (Choice C) are not indicated for the treatment of Kawasaki disease as it is not caused by a bacterial infection. Antivirals (Choice D) are also not part of the standard treatment for Kawasaki disease, as it is not caused by a viral infection.

5. The nurse understands that blocks to therapeutic communication include what? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Socializing
• B. All are applicable
• C. Using clichés
• D. Defending a situation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Socializing, using clichés, and defending a situation are all barriers to effective therapeutic communication. Silence is a useful tool in therapeutic communication.

Similar Questions