Nursing Elites

1. A 6-month-old infant who is being treated for developmental dysplasia of the hip has been placed in a hip spica cast. The nurse should teach the parents to

• A. Gently rub the skin with a cotton swab to relieve itching
• B. Place the favorite books and push-pull toys in the crib
• C. Check every few hours for the next day or 2 for swelling in the baby's feet
• D. Turn the baby with the abduction stabilizer bar every 2 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to check every few hours for the next day or 2 for swelling in the baby's feet. Swelling in the baby's feet could indicate compromised circulation due to the cast, and frequent checks are necessary to ensure that there are no complications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because rubbing the skin with a cotton swab, placing favorite items in the crib, and turning the baby with the abduction stabilizer bar do not address the potential issue of compromised circulation and swelling in the baby's feet.

2. The nurse is caring for a 75-year-old client in congestive heart failure. Which finding suggests that digitalis levels should be reviewed?

• A. Extreme fatigue
• B. Increased appetite
• C. Intense itching
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Extreme fatigue can be a sign of digitalis toxicity, especially in older adults, and warrants a review of the client's medication levels and potential adjustment. Increased appetite, intense itching, and constipation are not typically associated with digitalis toxicity and do not directly indicate a need for a review of digitalis levels.

3. Diabetes has become a major health problem. How can healthcare professionals contribute to reducing the incidence of diabetes?

• A. Conducting extensive diabetes patient screenings
• B. Supporting the implementation of Republic Act 8191-National Diabetes Act
• C. Creating support groups for diabetes patients
• D. Raising community awareness about diabetes prevention

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Raising community awareness about diabetes prevention is an effective way to reduce the incidence of diabetes. By educating the public about healthy lifestyle choices, risk factors, and preventive measures, healthcare professionals can empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health. Choice A is not as proactive as raising awareness in the community. While screening is important, prevention through awareness can have a broader impact. Choice B is specific to a particular act and may not apply universally. Choice C, establishing support groups, is beneficial for those already affected by diabetes but may not directly reduce the incidence of the disease.

4. After accepting the position of school nurse in a public elementary school, what strategy is best for the nurse to use to obtain an overview understanding of the student body?

• A. Review all health records of the students currently enrolled in classes.
• B. Talk with the current members of the parent-teacher association.
• C. Send a survey form to parents of third-grade students.
• D. Conduct a windshield survey of the geographic areas served by the school.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Conducting a windshield survey is the best strategy for the nurse to obtain an overview understanding of the student body. This method allows the nurse to observe the community, its resources, potential health hazards, and demographic information. Reviewing health records (Choice A) would provide detailed health information but not an overview of the student body. Talking with the parent-teacher association (Choice B) may offer insights but not a comprehensive overview. Sending a survey form to parents (Choice C) may provide specific information but may not capture a broad understanding of the student body.

5. After 3 days, the nurse notes that James has chest indrawing and stridor. His mother returned him to the health center immediately. The nurse should:

• A. Change the antibiotic to second-line antibiotics
• B. Advise the mother to observe the child and continue giving the antibiotics
• C. Give the first dose of antibiotics and refer urgently
• D. Observe the child at the center

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chest indrawing and stridor are signs of severe respiratory distress. In this situation, immediate referral is essential. Giving the first dose of antibiotics before referral can help initiate treatment, but urgent referral for further evaluation and management is crucial. Choice A is incorrect because simply changing the antibiotic without assessing the severity of the symptoms and providing urgent care is not appropriate. Choice B is incorrect as advising the mother to observe the child and continue antibiotics delays necessary intervention for a potentially life-threatening condition. Choice D is incorrect as observing the child at the center is not sufficient when signs of severe illness are present.

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