Nursing Elites

1. A child is being assessed for suspected appendicitis. What clinical manifestation is the healthcare professional likely to observe?

• A. Right lower quadrant pain
• B. Left lower quadrant pain
• C. Rebound tenderness
• D. Epigastric pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Right lower quadrant pain is a classic symptom of appendicitis. The appendix is typically located in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, so pain in this area is commonly associated with appendicitis. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because left lower quadrant pain, rebound tenderness, and epigastric pain are not typical manifestations of appendicitis. Left lower quadrant pain is not associated with appendicitis since the appendix is situated in the right lower quadrant. Rebound tenderness is more commonly linked with peritonitis rather than appendicitis. Epigastric pain is not a typical presentation of appendicitis as the pain is usually localized to the right lower quadrant.

2. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respirations of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C. Any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported, as they may indicate a developing condition that requires prompt attention. Choice A is incorrect because slow respirations in infants should not be dismissed without assessment and documentation. Choice B is incorrect because a drop in respiratory rate in this case was significant and should have been documented. Choice D is incorrect because even though infants have underdeveloped respiratory tracts, any abnormal respiratory rate should be taken seriously and documented for monitoring and intervention if necessary.

3. A child with a diagnosis of leukemia is receiving chemotherapy. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Monitoring for signs of infection
• B. Providing nutritional support
• C. Monitoring for signs of bleeding
• D. Monitoring for signs of pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy is monitoring for signs of infection. Chemotherapy can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Detecting and managing infections promptly is crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Providing nutritional support is important, but infection prevention takes precedence due to the immediate threat it poses to the child's health. Monitoring for signs of bleeding is relevant in leukemia due to decreased platelet count, but infection surveillance is more critical. Monitoring for signs of pain is essential, but addressing infections promptly is the priority to prevent further deterioration in the child's condition.

4. The nurse is caring for an infant with osteogenesis imperfecta and is providing instruction on how to reduce the risk of injury. Which response from the mother indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I need to avoid pushing or pulling on an arm or leg.
• B. I must avoid lifting the baby from under the armpits.
• C. I should not bend an arm or leg into an awkward position.
• D. We must avoid lifting the legs by the ankles to change diapers.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lifting the baby from under the armpits can cause fractures in infants with osteogenesis imperfecta. The correct approach is to support the baby's body and head carefully, avoiding pressure on vulnerable areas prone to fractures. Choices A, C, and D demonstrate proper awareness of caring for an infant with osteogenesis imperfecta by emphasizing caution to prevent fractures.

5. An infant is diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease. What nursing intervention is essential before surgery?

• A. Administering antibiotics
• B. Ensuring bowel rest
• C. Performing regular enemas
• D. Maintaining NPO status

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Maintaining NPO (nothing by mouth) status is essential before surgery for a patient with Hirschsprung disease to prevent aspiration. Administering antibiotics, ensuring bowel rest, and performing regular enemas are not the priority interventions before surgery for this condition. Administering antibiotics may be necessary in the postoperative period to prevent infection, ensuring bowel rest can be beneficial but is not the priority, and performing regular enemas is not typically recommended before surgery for Hirschsprung disease.

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