a child with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis is admitted to the hospital what is the priority nursing intervention
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatric HESI Practice Questions

1. A child with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Gastroenteritis is characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to fluid loss. Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance is essential in managing gastroenteritis to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Encouraging regular exercise (Choice B) is not a priority in the acute phase of gastroenteritis when the focus is on rehydration and symptom management. Administering antipyretics (Choice C) may be considered for fever management but is not the priority over monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance. Administering antibiotics (Choice D) is not routinely indicated for viral gastroenteritis, which is a common cause of the condition in children.

2. What is the priority intervention for a 10-year-old girl in a foster family?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a foster family setup, the priority intervention for a 10-year-old girl is to perform a comprehensive health assessment. This is crucial as children in foster care may have moved between different homes, leading to incomplete medical records. A comprehensive health assessment helps identify any health issues, track the child's growth and development, and ensure appropriate medical care. While addressing bullying at school, managing parental expectations, and establishing the primary caretaker are important considerations, the immediate priority for the child's well-being and holistic care is to conduct a thorough health assessment.

3. A child is being assessed for suspected appendicitis. What clinical manifestation is the healthcare professional likely to observe?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Right lower quadrant pain is a classic symptom of appendicitis. The appendix is typically located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, so pain in this area is commonly associated with appendicitis. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because left lower quadrant pain, rebound tenderness, and epigastric pain are not typical manifestations of appendicitis. Left lower quadrant pain is not associated with appendicitis since the appendix is situated in the right lower quadrant. Rebound tenderness is more commonly linked with peritonitis rather than appendicitis. Epigastric pain is not a typical presentation of appendicitis as the pain is usually localized to the right lower quadrant.

4. A parent asks the nurse what to do when their toddler has temper tantrums. What play materials should the nurse suggest to offer the child as another way of expressing anger?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pegs and pounding boards are the most suitable choice for toddlers to express their emotions constructively. These materials provide a safe and acceptable way for toddlers to release anger and frustration through physical activity. Options A, B, and C may not be as effective or safe for toddlers dealing with temper tantrums. A ball and bat may encourage aggressive behavior rather than constructive expression. A wad of clay might not be ideal for channeling anger, and a punching bag can potentially promote violent behavior, which is not appropriate for toddlers.

5. 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?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The child's behavior of smiling easily, interacting happily with nurses, and showing disinterest in the parent when they visit indicates that the child has emotionally withdrawn and accepted the separation. This response suggests that the child may have given up fighting against the separation from the parent due to prolonged hospitalization. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A about the child repressing feelings towards the parent is not supported by the scenario. Choice B about routines and feeling safe does not address the emotional aspect of the child's behavior. Choice D about improved behavior due to feeling better physically does not explain the emotional dynamics at play in the child's behavior.

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