Nursing Elites

1. A child is being assessed for possible appendicitis with perforation. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

• A. Hyperactive bowel sounds
• B. Abdominal distension
• C. Hypoactive bowel sounds
• D. Bradycardia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a child with appendicitis and possible perforation, the nurse should expect bradycardia due to peritoneal irritation. Bradycardia is a common response to peritoneal inflammation or infection, indicating a possible serious complication. Hyperactive bowel sounds, abdominal distension, and hypoactive bowel sounds are more commonly associated with other gastrointestinal conditions and are less likely to be present in a child with appendicitis and perforation. Therefore, the correct answer is bradycardia (D) as it aligns with the expected physiological response in this scenario.

2. A child with suspected bacterial meningitis is under the care of a nurse. Which action should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Administer antibiotics as prescribed.
• B. Maintain the child on NPO status.
• C. Monitor the child's intake and output.
• D. Implement seizure precautions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority action for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis is to implement seizure precautions. Meningitis can lead to increased intracranial pressure, which may trigger seizures. By implementing seizure precautions, such as padding the side rails of the bed and ensuring a clear environment, the nurse aims to prevent injury during a potential seizure episode, prioritizing the child's safety. Administering antibiotics as prescribed is essential in treating bacterial meningitis, but seizure precautions take precedence due to the immediate risk of injury. Maintaining NPO status and monitoring intake and output are important aspects of care but are not the priority when considering the risk of seizures.

3. A child with glomerulonephritis receiving corticosteroid treatment requires dietary teaching. What instruction should the nurse provide to the parent?

• A. Increase the child's intake of potassium-rich foods.
• B. Encourage the child to eat low-calorie snacks.
• C. Offer the child a variety of fresh fruits.
• D. Restrict the child's fluid intake.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to offer the child a variety of fresh fruits. Glomerulonephritis and corticosteroid use can lead to potassium depletion. Fresh fruits are a good source of potassium, which can help counteract the depletion caused by corticosteroids. Encouraging a variety of fresh fruits can provide necessary nutrients and help maintain a balanced diet for the child.

4. A patient with Parkinson�s disease who takes levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) comes to the clinic for a semi-annual physical examination. Which question is the most important for that nurse to ask?

• A. Have you noticed any swelling in your feet?
• B. Are you having vivid dreams or hallucination?
• C. Have you noticed any changes in your stool?
• D. Have you had your flu vaccine?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients taking levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) are at increased risk for the psychiatric side effects of levodopa, including visual hallucinations, vivid dreams, nightmares, and paranoid ideation. The other questions are not directly related to problems that are likely to occur with this drug.

5. When teaching a school-age child and the parent how to administer insulin, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Store the insulin in the refrigerator after each use.
• B. Rotate injection sites each time you give the injection.
• C. You should give the insulin at room temperature.
• D. Administer the insulin within 30 minutes of each meal.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: It is essential to give insulin at room temperature to prevent discomfort during administration. Cold insulin can cause stinging and pain, which can be avoided by allowing the insulin to reach room temperature before administration. Storing insulin in the refrigerator is correct for long-term storage, but it should be brought to room temperature before use. Rotating injection sites is important to prevent lipohypertrophy, a condition characterized by fatty lumps that can develop if injections are consistently given in the same area. Administering insulin within 30 minutes of a meal is generally recommended to match the insulin peak action with the peak glucose levels after eating, but giving insulin at room temperature is more crucial to ensure comfort and proper absorption.

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