Nursing Elites

1. A 7-year-old child with type 1 diabetes is brought to the emergency department with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The nurse notes that the child's blood glucose level is 350 mg/dL. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Administer IV fluids as prescribed
• B. Administer insulin as prescribed
• C. Monitor the child's urine output
• D. Check the child's urine for ketones

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a child with type 1 diabetes presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a high blood glucose level, the priority is to administer IV fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are crucial in managing diabetic ketoacidosis. Administering insulin without addressing fluid deficits can lead to further complications. While monitoring urine output and checking for ketones are important steps in the care of a child with diabetes, the immediate focus should be on correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances through IV fluid administration to stabilize the child's condition.

2. A 14-year-old adolescent with a history of substance abuse is brought to the emergency department by the parents, who suspect that the adolescent has relapsed. What is the nurse’s priority action?

• A. Obtain a urine sample for toxicology screening
• B. Discuss treatment options with the parents
• C. Establish a therapeutic relationship with the adolescent
• D. Administer a medication to reverse the effects of the substance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse's priority action should be to obtain a urine sample for toxicology screening. This step is crucial in identifying the substances involved in the relapse, which will guide appropriate treatment strategies. By knowing the specific substances, healthcare providers can tailor treatment plans effectively. Establishing a therapeutic relationship and discussing treatment options come after obtaining necessary diagnostic information to ensure a comprehensive care plan. Administering a medication to reverse substance effects is not the initial priority; identification of the substances through toxicology screening should precede any treatment intervention.

3. The nurse is providing care for a 12-year-old child who was recently diagnosed with scoliosis. The child’s parent asks about treatment options. What is the nurse’s best response?

• A. Scoliosis can be corrected with exercises and physical therapy.
• B. Bracing is often recommended to prevent further curvature of the spine.
• C. Surgery is usually necessary for all cases of scoliosis.
• D. There is no effective treatment for scoliosis.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bracing is commonly used in moderate cases of scoliosis to prevent progression of the spinal curvature. Choice A is incorrect because exercises and physical therapy can help manage scoliosis but may not correct it. Choice C is incorrect as surgery is usually reserved for severe cases of scoliosis that do not respond to other treatments. Choice D is incorrect because there are effective treatments available for scoliosis, such as bracing, and surgery when necessary.

4. A male infant with bronchiolitis is brought to the clinic by his mother. The infant is congested and febrile with a capillary refill of 2 seconds. Which information should the nurse discuss with the mother?

• A. Encourage the infant to play
• B. Limit the amount of oral intake
• C. Keep the infant isolated from others
• D. Place the infant on their back for naps

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bronchiolitis is a highly contagious respiratory infection commonly caused by viruses. Isolating the infant from others is crucial to prevent the spread of the infection to other vulnerable individuals, especially those with weakened immune systems. Encouraging play may not be appropriate as the infant is sick and needs rest. Limiting oral intake might be necessary if the infant is having difficulty swallowing due to respiratory distress. Placing the infant on their back for naps is a safe sleep practice but not the priority in this situation where preventing transmission of the infection is crucial.

5. The healthcare provider is evaluating the effects of thyroid therapy used to treat a 5-month-old with hypothyroidism. Which behavior indicates that the treatment has been effective?

• A. Laughs readily, turns from back to side.
• B. Has strong Moro and tonic neck reflexes.
• C. Keeps fists clenched, opens hands when grasping an object.
• D. Can lift head, but not chest when lying on abdomen.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The ability to laugh readily and turn from back to side indicates the effectiveness of thyroid therapy and normal development in a 5-month-old. These behaviors suggest improved muscle tone and motor skills, which are positive outcomes of thyroid hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. Choices B, C, and D describe developmental milestones that are not specific indicators of the effectiveness of thyroid therapy in treating hypothyroidism in a 5-month-old.

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