Nursing Elites

1. During a routine monthly examination, a 5-month-old infant is brought to the pediatric clinic. What assessment finding should alert the nurse to notify the health care provider immediately?

• A. Temperature of 99.5°F
• B. Blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg
• C. Heart rate of 100 beats per minute
• D. Respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute in a 5-month-old infant is higher than the expected range and may indicate respiratory distress. This finding is concerning and should prompt the nurse to notify the health care provider for further evaluation and intervention. A temperature of 99.5°F, blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg, and heart rate of 100 beats per minute are within normal ranges for a 5-month-old infant. Elevated temperature may indicate a mild fever, which can be monitored. A blood pressure of 75/48 mm Hg is within the normal range for infants. A heart rate of 100 beats per minute is also within the expected range for a 5-month-old infant and does not typically require immediate notification of the health care provider.

2. A healthcare provider is assessing a child with suspected bacterial meningitis. What is a common clinical manifestation that the provider is likely to observe?

• A. Rash
• B. Photophobia
• C. Jaundice
• D. Kernig sign

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A common clinical manifestation of bacterial meningitis is a positive Kernig sign, which indicates meningeal irritation. Kernig sign is elicited when the leg is bent at the hip and knee at 90-degree angles, and pain and resistance are felt with extension at the knee due to inflamed meninges. Options A, B, and C are not typically associated with bacterial meningitis. A rash is more commonly seen in viral illnesses, photophobia can be present but is not specific to bacterial meningitis, and jaundice is not a typical clinical manifestation of this condition.

3. A child with a diagnosis of leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Monitoring for signs of infection
• B. Providing nutritional support
• C. Monitoring for signs of bleeding
• D. Monitoring for signs of pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy is monitoring for signs of infection. Chemotherapy can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Detecting and managing infections promptly is crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Providing nutritional support is important, but infection prevention takes precedence due to the immediate threat it poses to the child's health. Monitoring for signs of bleeding is relevant in leukemia due to decreased platelet count, but infection surveillance is more critical. Monitoring for signs of pain is essential, but addressing infections promptly is the priority to prevent further deterioration in the child's condition.

4. A 6-month-old infant is admitted with a diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). What should the nurse include in the care plan?

• A. Providing small, frequent feedings
• B. Administering antibiotics
• C. Maintaining strict isolation
• D. Elevating the head of the bed

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed is essential in the care of an infant with RSV as it helps improve breathing by reducing congestion and promoting drainage. This position also aids in maintaining patent airways and can enhance comfort for the infant. Providing small, frequent feedings (Choice A) is generally appropriate for infants but is not a specific intervention for RSV. Administering antibiotics (Choice B) is not indicated for RSV, as it is a viral infection and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Maintaining strict isolation (Choice C) is important to prevent the spread of infections, but it is not a direct care intervention for managing RSV symptoms.

5. A home care nurse is visiting a family for the first time. The 4-week-old infant had surgery for exstrophy of the bladder and creation of an ileal conduit soon after birth. When the nurse arrives, the mother appears tired, and the baby is crying. After an introduction, which is the most appropriate statement by the nurse?

• A. “Tell me about your daily routine.”
• B. “You look tired. Is everything all right?”
• C. “When was the last time the baby had a bottle?”
• D. “Oh, it looks like you two are having a bad day.”

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate statement by the nurse in this scenario is to inquire about the family's daily routine. This question allows the nurse to gather information about the family dynamics, the care routine for the infant post-surgery, feeding schedules, and potential stressors. It opens the conversation in a non-intrusive manner and helps the nurse assess the family's situation to provide appropriate support. Choices B, C, and D do not address the situation effectively. Asking about the daily routine is crucial for the nurse to understand the family's needs and offer targeted assistance.

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