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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HESI LPN

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 nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a child diagnosed with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). What would the nurse interpret as indicative of this disorder?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Positive fibrin split products indicate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a condition characterized by the widespread formation of blood clots throughout the body. In DIC, clotting factors are consumed, leading to increased fibrin split products. A shortened prothrombin time (Choice A) is not typically seen in DIC as it indicates faster blood clotting, which is not consistent with the pathophysiology of DIC. An increased fibrinogen level (Choice B) is also not a characteristic finding in DIC, as fibrinogen levels may be decreased due to consumption in the formation of clots. Increased platelets (Choice D) are not typically observed in DIC; instead, thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count) is more common due to their consumption in clot formation.

3. A parent brings a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome to the pediatric clinic for a physical and administration of immunizations. Which clinical finding should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform further assessment in a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome. This finding may indicate cardiac or respiratory issues, such as inadequate oxygenation. Small, low-set ears and a protruding furrowed tongue are common physical characteristics associated with Down syndrome and may not necessarily warrant immediate further assessment. A flat occiput is a normal variation in infant anatomy and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in this context.

4. A 3-year-old child is being discharged after being treated for dehydration. What should be included in the discharge teaching?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor for signs of dehydration. After treatment for dehydration, it is crucial to educate caregivers about recognizing early signs of dehydration to prevent its recurrence. Monitoring for dehydration ensures that appropriate measures can be taken promptly if signs reappear. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because infection, hypovolemia, and malnutrition, while important considerations in healthcare, are not the primary focus after treating dehydration in a 3-year-old child.

5. What factor predisposes the urinary tract to infection in children?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The short urethra in young girls predisposes them to urinary tract infections. In young girls, the proximity of the urethra to the anus and the shorter urethra compared to boys make it easier for bacteria to travel up the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Increased fluid intake and frequent emptying of the bladder are actually helpful in preventing urinary tract infections by flushing out bacteria. Prostatic secretions in males are not a factor in predisposing the urinary tract to infection in children.

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