Nursing Elites

1. A 6-year-old child comes to the school nurse reporting a sore throat, and the nurse verifies that the child has a fever and a red, inflamed throat. When a parent of the child arrives at school to take the child home, the nurse urges the parent to seek treatment. The nurse is aware that the causative agent may be beta-hemolytic streptococcus, and the illness may progress to inflamed joints and an infection in the heart. What illness is of most concern to the nurse?

• A. Tetanus
• B. Influenza
• C. Scarlet fever
• D. Rheumatic fever

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can develop as a complication of untreated strep throat caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcus. It is characterized by inflamed joints and can lead to serious complications such as heart infections. Tetanus (choice A) is caused by a bacterial toxin affecting the nervous system, Influenza (choice B) is a viral respiratory illness, and Scarlet fever (choice C) is also caused by streptococcus but is characterized by a sandpaper-like rash and strawberry tongue. However, in the scenario described, the nurse is most concerned about the child developing rheumatic fever due to the potential serious consequences associated with it.

2. During the second week of hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic therapy, a 2-year-old toddler whose family is unable to visit often smiles easily, goes to all the nurses happily, and does not express interest in the parent when the parent does visit. The parent tells the nurse, 'I am pleased about the adjustment but somewhat concerned about my child’s reaction to me.' How should the nurse respond?

• A. The child is repressing feelings for the parent.
• B. Routines have been established, and the child feels safe.
• C. The child has given up fighting and accepts the separation.
• D. Behavior has improved because the child feels better physically.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'The child has given up fighting and accepts the separation.' This response indicates that the child is emotionally withdrawing due to the separation from the parent during hospitalization. Choice A is incorrect because the child's behavior does not necessarily suggest repressed feelings for the parent. Choice B is incorrect as feeling safe due to established routines does not fully explain the child's behavior. Choice D is incorrect because while feeling better physically may contribute to improved behavior, it does not address the emotional aspect of the child's reaction to the parent.

3. A nurse on the pediatric unit is observing the developmental skills of several 2-year-old children in the playroom. Which child should the nurse continue to evaluate?

• A. Cannot stand on one foot
• B. Builds a tower of 7 blocks
• C. Uses echolalia when speaking
• D. Colors outside the lines of a picture

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Using echolalia, which is the repetition of words or phrases, is not typical for a 2-year-old child and may indicate the need for further evaluation. Choices A, B, and D are all within the expected developmental skills for a 2-year-old. While most 2-year-olds may not be able to stand on one foot, it is not a cause for concern at this age. Building a tower of 7 blocks and coloring outside the lines of a picture are both appropriate for a 2-year-old's developmental skills.

4. A parent calls the outpatient clinic requesting information about the appropriate dose of acetaminophen for a 16-month-old child who has signs of an upper respiratory tract infection and fever. The directions on the bottle of acetaminophen elixir are 120 mg every 4 hours when needed. At the toddler’s 15-month visit, the health care provider prescribed 150 mg. What is the nurse’s best response to the parent?

• A. “The dose is close enough, and it doesn’t really matter which one is given.”
• B. “From your description, the medications are not necessary. They should be avoided at this age.”
• C. “It is appropriate to use dosages based on age. Children typically have weights consistent for their age groups.”
• D. “The prescribed dose of the drug was based on weight, and this is a more accurate way of determining a therapeutic dose.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most accurate way to determine a therapeutic dose for children is based on their weight rather than age. Weight-based dosing helps ensure that the child receives the appropriate amount of medication for their body size, which is crucial for safety and effectiveness. Age-based dosing can lead to underdosing or overdosing, as children of the same age can have significantly different weights. Choice A is incorrect because even small variations in dosages can have significant effects on a child's health. Choice B is incorrect as acetaminophen can be appropriate when used correctly for fever management in children. Choice C is incorrect as children's weights can vary greatly within the same age group, making weight-based dosing more precise and individualized.

5. A group of students is reviewing information about the endocrine system in infants and children. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they state:

• A. Endocrine glands begin developing during gestation.
• B. Endocrine glands are fully functional at birth.
• C. Infants may have difficulty regulating glucose and electrolytes.
• D. A child’s endocrine system plays a significant role in growth and development.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Infants may have difficulty regulating glucose and electrolytes due to their immature endocrine systems. This can lead to issues such as hypoglycemia and electrolyte imbalances. Choice A is incorrect because endocrine glands actually begin developing early in gestation, not just in the third trimester. Choice B is incorrect as endocrine glands are not fully functional at birth; they continue to mature and develop after birth. Choice D is incorrect as a child's endocrine system has a significant impact on growth and development through the secretion of hormones that regulate various processes in the body, but it does not specifically address the difficulty in regulating glucose and electrolytes seen in infants.

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