a family has decided to withhold extraordinary care for a newborn with severe abnormalities how should the nurse interpret this decision
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Pediatric Practice Exam HESI

1. When a family decides to withhold 'extraordinary care' for a newborn with severe abnormalities, what does this decision indicate?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a family decides to withhold 'extraordinary care' for a newborn with severe abnormalities, it means that aggressive interventions will not be pursued, allowing the newborn to die naturally. This decision is legal and ethical, respecting the principle of non-maleficence by avoiding unnecessary suffering. Choice A is incorrect because all individuals, including newborns, have rights, but the decision to withhold extraordinary care is based on ethical considerations. Choice B is incorrect as withholding care is not the same as euthanasia, which involves actively ending life. Choice C is incorrect as long as the decision is made within legal and ethical boundaries, it is not considered illegal professional practice.

2. The parents of a 6-week-old infant who was born without an immune system ask a nurse why their baby is still so healthy. How should the nurse reply?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Infants receive passive immunity through antibodies from the mother during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which protect them initially. Choice A is incorrect because a 6-week-old infant born without an immune system would not be able to limit exposure to pathogens effectively. Choice B is incorrect as antibodies produced by colonic bacteria are not a significant source of immunity in infants. Choice D is incorrect as the fetal thymus primarily plays a role in T cell development rather than antibody production during gestation.

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct clinical manifestation the healthcare provider is likely to observe in a child with suspected intussusception is abdominal distension. Intussusception involves one portion of the intestine telescoping into another, causing obstruction. Abdominal distension is a common symptom due to the obstruction and buildup of gas and fluid in the affected area. While projectile vomiting can occur, it is not as specific to intussusception as abdominal distension. Currant jelly stools, which are stools containing blood and mucus, are a classic sign of intussusception but are not a clinical manifestation observable on assessment. Constipation is not typically associated with intussusception, as this condition often presents with symptoms of bowel obstruction rather than constipation.

4. When teaching a class of new parents about positioning their infants during the first few weeks of life, which position is safest?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'On the back, lying flat'. Placing infants on their back to sleep is recommended to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This position helps ensure the baby's airway remains clear and reduces the likelihood of suffocation. Choices B, C, and D are not as safe as placing the infant on their back, as they may increase the risk of accidental suffocation or SIDS.

5. An order is written for an isotonic enema for a 2-year-old child. What is the maximum amount of fluid the nurse should administer without a specific order from the healthcare provider?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: For a 2-year-old child, the maximum recommended amount of fluid for an isotonic enema is between 155 to 250 mL. This range is considered safe to prevent overdistension and potential harm to the child's rectum. Choices A, C, and D exceed the safe range for a 2-year-old child and can lead to complications such as bowel perforation or electrolyte imbalances.

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