ATI RN
ATI Nursing Care of Children
1. A child is admitted with suspected pyloric stenosis. Which of the following should be included in the plan of care?
- A. Monitor for signs of metabolic acidosis
- B. Observe for projectile vomiting
- C. Provide large, infrequent feedings to allow for rest
- D. Place the infant in a supine position after feeding
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Observe for projectile vomiting.' Projectile vomiting is a classic sign of pyloric stenosis, caused by obstruction at the pylorus. Choice A is incorrect as metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis, often occurs due to the loss of hydrochloric acid from persistent vomiting. Choice C is incorrect as frequent, small feedings are preferred to prevent overloading the stomach. Choice D is incorrect as placing the infant in an upright position after feeding can help reduce reflux.
2. During which phase of the nursing process does the nurse use essential information about the child’s physical, social, and emotional health to decide which interventions to use?
- A. Implementation
- B. Planning
- C. Diagnosis
- D. Assessment
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Planning. During the planning phase of the nursing process, the nurse utilizes essential information gathered during the assessment about the child’s physical, social, and emotional health to determine the most appropriate interventions to address the identified needs. This phase focuses on developing a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual child. A) Implementation is incorrect because this phase involves carrying out the interventions outlined in the care plan. C) Diagnosis is incorrect as it refers to identifying health issues based on the assessment data. D) Assessment is incorrect as it involves collecting and analyzing data about the child's health status, rather than deciding on interventions.
3. A parent brings their 2-year-old son in for a well visit. The nurse assesses his growth since the last appointment. Which finding should concern the nurse?
- A. Prominent abdomen
- B. Forward curve of the spine in the sacral area
- C. Increase in height of 5 inches in the past year
- D. Total weight gain of 15 lb in the past year
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. A total weight gain of 15 lb in one year for a 2-year-old is excessive and may indicate an underlying issue such as a metabolic disorder or overfeeding. This rapid weight gain can put the child at risk for health problems. Choices A, B, and C are not typically concerning findings in a 2-year-old. A prominent abdomen can be normal at this age due to a toddler's slightly protruding belly, a forward curve of the spine at the sacral area is a typical finding in young children, and an increase in height of 5 inches in a year is within the expected range of growth for a 2-year-old.
4. Which condition is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough in children?
- A. Croup
- B. Asthma
- C. Bronchitis
- D. Pneumonia
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Croup is the correct answer. Croup is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough due to inflammation and narrowing of the upper airways, particularly the larynx and trachea. It is most common in young children and can cause significant respiratory distress, especially at night. Treatment often includes humidified air and corticosteroids. Asthma (choice B) typically presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not a barking cough. Bronchitis (choice C) is characterized by productive cough with mucus, not a barking cough. Pneumonia (choice D) often presents with fever, productive cough, and chest pain, not a barking cough.
5. A mother tells the nurse that she does not want her infant immunized because of the discomfort associated with injections. What should the nurse explain?
- A. This cannot be prevented
- B. Infants do not feel pain as adults do
- C. This is not a good reason for refusing
- D. A topical anesthetic can be applied
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should explain that a topical anesthetic can be applied to the injection site before the immunization to reduce discomfort.