Nursing Elites

1. What action should you take if a newborn's heart rate is 50 beats/min?

• A. Begin chest compressions.
• B. Reassess in 30 seconds.
• C. Administer blow-by oxygen.
• D. Start positive-pressure ventilations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: If a newborn's heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, the appropriate action is to start positive-pressure ventilations. Ventilations help deliver oxygen to the newborn's body and support respiratory function, which is critical in cases of bradycardia. Chest compressions are not recommended until the heart rate is below 60 despite adequate ventilation. Reassessment is essential but not the immediate action required in this scenario. Administering blow-by oxygen alone may not effectively address the underlying cause of bradycardia, making positive-pressure ventilations the priority intervention in this case.

2. A 4-year-old boy ingested an unknown quantity of drain cleaner. He is alert, has a patent airway, and has adequate breathing. You should:

• A. administer 1 g/kg of activated charcoal.
• B. give 15 mL of ipecac and contact medical control.
• C. contact poison control and give him oxygen.
• D. give oxygen and perform a head-to-toe exam.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a child ingests a harmful substance like drain cleaner and remains alert with a patent airway and adequate breathing, the initial steps involve contacting poison control to guide further management. In this scenario, providing oxygen to support respiratory function is essential until definitive care is established. Activated charcoal and ipecac are not recommended in the management of ingested caustic substances like drain cleaner. Performing a head-to-toe exam can wait until the child's immediate respiratory needs are addressed and the poison control center has provided guidance on further management.

3. What is the MOST common cause of shock in infants and children?

• A. Severe allergic reaction
• B. Dehydration
• C. Accidental poisoning
• D. Cardiac failure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Dehydration is the most common cause of shock in infants and children. In children, the body's fluid reserves are smaller compared to adults, making them more susceptible to dehydration, which can lead to shock if not promptly addressed. Severe allergic reactions, accidental poisoning, and cardiac failure can also cause shock, but dehydration is the most frequent cause in this age group.

4. A 30-year-old woman is 22 weeks pregnant with her first child. She tells you that her rings are not fitting as loosely as they usually do and that her ankles are swollen. Her blood pressure is 150/86 mm Hg. She is MOST likely experiencing:

• A. a condition unrelated to pregnancy.
• B. gestational diabetes.
• C. a hypertensive emergency.
• D. preeclampsia.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms of swollen ankles, tight rings, and elevated blood pressure in a pregnant woman at 22 weeks gestation are concerning for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, commonly seen with symptoms such as swelling (edema) and protein in the urine. It is crucial to monitor and manage preeclampsia promptly as it can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the baby.

5. A new mother expresses concern about her baby's frequent hiccups. What should the nurse explain about newborn hiccups?

• A. Hiccups are a sign of respiratory distress in newborns.
• B. Hiccups indicate the baby is overeating.
• C. Hiccups are common and usually harmless in newborns.
• D. Hiccups are caused by a lack of burping.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Newborn hiccups are common and usually harmless. They are typically caused by the baby's immature diaphragm and tend to resolve on their own. It is essential for parents to understand that hiccups in newborns are a normal phenomenon and do not necessarily indicate any underlying health issue. Choice A is incorrect because hiccups are not a sign of respiratory distress in newborns. Choice B is incorrect as hiccups do not indicate the baby is overeating. Choice D is also incorrect as hiccups are not solely caused by a lack of burping.

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