Nursing Elites

1. A child has a nasogastric (NG) tube after surgery for Hirschsprung disease. What is the purpose of the NG tube?

• A. Prevent the spread of infection.
• B. Monitor electrolyte balance.
• C. Prevent abdominal distention.
• D. Maintain accurate records of output.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of an NG tube post-surgery for Hirschsprung disease is to prevent abdominal distention by decompressing the stomach and intestines. This helps prevent complications and promotes healing.

2. A major reason for the development of respiratory distress syndrome in the preterm infant is:

• A. Excessive surfactant
• B. Lack of surfactant
• C. Immature immune system
• D. Lack of body fat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lack of surfactant. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants is primarily due to a lack of surfactant, which is crucial for keeping the lungs inflated. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, leading to breathing difficulties. Choice A, Excessive surfactant, is incorrect as RDS is caused by an insufficient amount of surfactant. Choice C, Immature immune system, and Choice D, Lack of body fat, are not directly related to the development of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

3. What laboratory finding should the nurse expect in a child with an excess of water?

• A. Decreased hematocrit
• B. High serum osmolality
• C. High urine specific gravity
• D. Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Water excess typically leads to hemodilution, resulting in a decreased hematocrit. High serum osmolality and specific gravity would indicate dehydration, while elevated BUN could suggest renal impairment or dehydration, not fluid overload.

4. Pertussis vaccination should begin at which age?

• A. Birth
• B. 2 months
• C. 6 months
• D. 12 months

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The DTaP vaccine, which includes pertussis, is typically started at 2 months of age as part of the recommended immunization schedule.

5. A child has a planned hospitalization in a few weeks, and the client and family appear very stressed. Which nursing action will minimize their stress?

• A. Telling the client and family that everything will be fine
• B. Explaining how the child will benefit from the surgery
• C. Telling the client and family that the surgeon is very good
• D. Giving a tour of the hospital unit or surgical area

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct nursing action to minimize the stress of the child and family is giving a tour of the hospital unit or surgical area. Familiarizing them with the hospital environment can help reduce their anxiety by allowing them to see where the child will be staying and the surroundings. Choices A, B, and C do not directly address the need to reduce stress by providing a tangible way to alleviate anxiety through exposure to the hospital setting.

Similar Questions