Nursing Elites

1. A 5-year-old boy was struck by a car when he ran out into the street. When you arrive at the scene and approach the child, you see him lying supine approximately 15 feet from the car. Based on the child's age and mechanism of injury, which of the following should you suspect to be his PRIMARY injury?

• A. Lower leg injury
• B. Head injury
• C. Upper thorax injury
• D. Pelvic injury

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Given the mechanism of injury and the distance the child was thrown, a primary pelvic injury should be suspected due to the high impact and force. The pelvis is a common site for significant injury in such cases, and the distance the child was thrown indicates a high-energy impact that could lead to pelvic fractures or injuries.

2. When assessing a 6-year-old boy with pain in the right lower quadrant of his abdomen, which action should be performed first?

• A. Avoiding palpation of the abdomen.
• B. Palpating the right lower quadrant first.
• C. Auscultating bowel sounds for 2 minutes.
• D. Palpating the left upper quadrant first.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Palpating the left upper quadrant first is the correct approach when assessing abdominal pain in a child. This method helps to minimize causing additional discomfort to the child and allows for a more accurate assessment of their reaction to palpation. By starting on the left upper quadrant, you can gauge the child's pain response before moving to the area of complaint, which may be more sensitive. This approach is essential for a thorough and less distressing abdominal assessment in pediatric patients.

3. How can the nurse best assess that the parents demonstrate understanding of the dressing change procedure prior to discharge for their child with burns?

• A. The parents explaining the importance of using sterile technique to the nurse.
• B. The nurse observing the parents changing the dressing using appropriate technique.
• C. The parents observing the nurse changing the dressing and confirming their understanding of the procedure.
• D. The nurse allowing the parents to explain the dressing change procedure and perform it in private to boost their confidence.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective way for the nurse to assess the parents' understanding of the dressing change procedure is by observing them as they change the dressing using the correct technique. This direct observation ensures that the parents are able to perform the task correctly and confidently before discharge. Merely verbalizing or explaining the procedure may not accurately reflect the parents' competency in performing the actual task. Choice A involves the parents explaining to the nurse, which does not directly assess their practical skills. Choice C suggests the parents observing the nurse, which does not evaluate the parents' ability to perform the task independently. Choice D focuses on boosting the parents' confidence but does not directly assess their understanding and competency in performing the dressing change.

4. When assessing a 5-year-old boy with major trauma, his blood pressure is 70/40 mm Hg, and his pulse rate is 140 beats/min and weak. The child's blood pressure:

• A. indicates decompensated shock.
• B. reflects adequate compensation.
• C. suggests increased intracranial pressure.
• D. is appropriate based on his age.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a 5-year-old boy with major trauma, a blood pressure of 70/40 mm Hg and a pulse rate of 140 beats/min, and weak, indicate decompensated shock. This presentation signifies inadequate perfusion, leading to compensatory mechanisms being overwhelmed, resulting in decompensated shock. Choice B is incorrect as the vital signs suggest the body is unable to adequately compensate for the trauma. Choice C is incorrect as the vital signs are more indicative of shock rather than increased intracranial pressure. Choice D is incorrect as such low blood pressure is not appropriate for a child of this age and indicates a critical condition.

5. What is the most appropriate technique to use when explaining a central line dressing change to a preschool-age client?

• A. Show a picture of the procedure in a book.
• B. Explain the procedure with clear instructions.
• C. Let the child perform a dressing change on a doll.
• D. None of the above.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate technique to use when explaining a central line dressing change to a preschool-age client is to let the child perform a dressing change on a doll. Preschool-age children learn best through play and hands-on activities. Allowing the child to practice on a doll helps them understand the procedure in a non-threatening and interactive way. This technique can reduce anxiety, increase cooperation, and enhance the child's understanding of the dressing change process. Choices A and B do not provide a hands-on approach, which is crucial for preschool-age children. Choice D is incorrect as providing an interactive experience is more effective than just showing pictures or giving verbal instructions.

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