Nursing Elites

1. A 4-year-old child is brought to the clinic with complaints of ear pain and fever. The practical nurse suspects otitis media. Which symptom supports this suspicion?

• A. Clear nasal discharge.
• B. Dry, hacking cough.
• C. Tugging at the ear.
• D. Sore throat.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Tugging at the ear is a common symptom in children with otitis media. It often indicates discomfort or pain in the ear, suggesting inflammation or infection in the middle ear. This behavior is frequently observed in young children who are unable to express their discomfort verbally, making it a significant clinical indicator for otitis media in this age group. Clear nasal discharge (Choice A) is more indicative of a cold or allergies, while a dry, hacking cough (Choice B) is not typically associated with otitis media. Although a sore throat (Choice D) can sometimes accompany ear infections, tugging at the ear is a more specific and reliable symptom in this case.

2. A child with cystic fibrosis is admitted to the hospital with respiratory distress. Which intervention should the practical nurse (PN) implement?

• A. Administer bronchodilators as prescribed.
• B. Limit fluid intake.
• C. Provide a high-fat diet.
• D. Encourage bed rest only.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering bronchodilators as prescribed is crucial for managing respiratory distress in children with cystic fibrosis. Bronchodilators help to open the airways, facilitating easier breathing for the child. Limiting fluid intake, providing a high-fat diet, or encouraging bed rest only are not appropriate interventions for respiratory distress associated with cystic fibrosis. Limiting fluid intake could worsen dehydration, a high-fat diet is not recommended due to pancreatic insufficiency in cystic fibrosis, and bed rest alone does not address the respiratory distress.

3. A child diagnosed with Kawasaki disease is brought to the clinic. The mother reports that her child is irritable, refuses to eat, and has skin peeling on both hands and feet. Which intervention should the nurse instruct the mother to implement first?

• A. Place the child in a quiet environment
• B. Make a list of foods that the child likes
• C. Encourage the parents to rest when possible
• D. Apply lotion to hands and feet

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Creating a quiet environment is the priority intervention as it helps reduce irritability and stress in children with Kawasaki disease. This intervention can promote a soothing atmosphere for the child, which may help in managing their symptoms effectively. Irritability and refusal to eat can be exacerbated by a noisy or stimulating environment. Making a list of foods the child likes is important, but addressing the immediate need for a calm environment takes precedence. Encouraging parents to rest is a good practice but not the immediate intervention needed for the child's symptoms. Applying lotion to hands and feet, although helpful for skin peeling, is not the first priority when dealing with irritability and refusal to eat.

4. After observing a mother giving her 11-month-old ferrous sulfate followed by two ounces of orange juice, what should the nurse do next?

• A. Suggest placing the iron drops in the orange juice and feed the infant.
• B. Advise the mother to follow the iron drops with formula instead of orange juice.
• C. Instruct the mother to feed the infant nothing in the next 30 minutes after the iron.
• D. Give positive feedback about the way she administered the sulfate.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Providing positive feedback is essential in reinforcing correct behaviors. By praising the mother for properly administering the ferrous sulfate to her 11-month-old, the nurse can encourage her to continue following the correct procedure. This positive reinforcement can boost the mother's confidence and adherence to the recommended administration method, ultimately benefiting the infant's health.

5. A middle school student was recently diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is having trouble with his grades. He is referred to the school nurse by the teacher because he continues to have learning problems. Which action should the school nurse take?

• A. Ask the parents to have the child seen by a clinical psychologist
• B. Ask the parents to become involved in helping the child with his homework
• C. Refer the child to the school counselor for educational testing
• D. Seek the advice of the school principal regarding the child's learning needs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Referring the child to the school counselor for educational testing is the most appropriate action in this scenario. This step can help identify the specific learning needs of the student and determine the appropriate interventions required to support his academic success. Option A is not the immediate action needed but may be considered in the future. Option B focuses on homework assistance, which may not address the underlying learning problems. Option D involves consulting the school principal, which is not the primary role in addressing the student's learning needs.

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