Nursing Elites

1. A mother brings her 3-month-old infant to the clinic because the baby does not sleep through the night. Which finding is most significant in planning care for this family?

• A. The mother is a single parent and lives with her parents
• B. The mother states the baby is irritable during feedings
• C. The infant’s formula has been changed twice
• D. The diaper area shows severe skin breakdown

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Severe skin breakdown in the diaper area is a significant finding indicating a potential health issue that needs immediate attention. It may be a sign of a skin condition, such as a diaper rash, which can cause discomfort and pain for the infant. Addressing this concern promptly is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure the baby's well-being. The other choices may also be important in assessing the overall situation of the family, but in terms of immediate care for the infant, the severe skin breakdown takes priority.

2. In a 7-year-old child with a history of asthma experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation and displaying wheezing and the use of accessory muscles to breathe, what is the nurse’s priority intervention?

• A. Administer a nebulized bronchodilator
• B. Obtain an arterial blood gas
• C. Start the child on oxygen therapy
• D. Notify the healthcare provider

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to administer a nebulized bronchodilator. During an acute asthma exacerbation in a child with wheezing and increased work of breathing, the priority intervention is to provide immediate bronchodilation to dilate the airways, relieve bronchospasm, and improve breathing. This intervention aims to manage the acute asthma attack effectively and prevent further respiratory distress. Obtaining an arterial blood gas, starting oxygen therapy, or notifying the healthcare provider are important actions, but administering a bronchodilator takes precedence in addressing the acute respiratory compromise.

3. The mother of a one-month-old calls the clinic to report that the back of her infant's head is flat. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Turn the infant on the left side braced against the crib when sleeping.
• B. Prop the infant in a sitting position with a cushion when not sleeping.
• C. Place a small pillow under the infant's head while lying on the back.
• D. Position the infant on the stomach occasionally when awake and active.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Positioning the infant on the stomach occasionally when awake and active can help prevent flat spots on the head. This position allows for more natural movement and prevents prolonged pressure on one area of the head, reducing the risk of developing a flat spot. Turning the infant on the left side braced against the crib when sleeping (choice A) is not recommended as it does not address the issue of flat spots. Propping the infant in a sitting position with a cushion when not sleeping (choice B) may increase the risk of falls and is not suitable for a one-month-old. Placing a small pillow under the infant's head while lying on the back (choice C) should be avoided due to the risk of suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

4. A 2-year-old child is admitted with severe dehydration due to gastroenteritis. Which assessment finding indicates that the child's condition is improving?

• A. Decreased heart rate.
• B. Sunken fontanelle.
• C. Increased urine output.
• D. Dry mucous membranes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Increased urine output is a positive sign indicating that the child's hydration status is improving. It suggests that the kidneys are functioning more effectively and able to excrete urine, which is a crucial indicator of improved hydration levels in a dehydrated patient. Decreased heart rate (Choice A) can be a sign of possible shock. A sunken fontanelle (Choice B) is a sign of dehydration. Dry mucous membranes (Choice D) are also indicative of dehydration.

5. When planning care for a child diagnosed with rheumatic fever, what is the primary goal of nursing care?

• A. Reduce fever.
• B. Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
• C. Prevent cardiac damage.
• D. Maintain joint mobility and function.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of nursing care for a child diagnosed with rheumatic fever is to prevent cardiac damage. Rheumatic fever can lead to complications affecting the heart, making it crucial to monitor and prevent cardiac involvement to avoid long-term consequences. While addressing fever and joint pain are important aspects of care, preventing cardiac damage takes precedence in managing rheumatic fever. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are not the primary goals of nursing care in this case.

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