Nursing Elites

1. A child is being assessed for suspected intussusception. What clinical manifestation is the nurse likely to observe?

• A. Projectile vomiting
• B. Currant jelly stools
• C. Abdominal distension
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct clinical manifestation that a nurse is likely to observe in a child with suspected intussusception is abdominal distension. Intussusception is a medical emergency where a part of the intestine folds into itself, causing obstruction. Abdominal distension is a common symptom due to the obstruction and the build-up of gases and fluids. While currant jelly stools (Choice B) are a classic sign of intussusception, they are typically seen in later stages of the condition and may not be present during the initial assessment. Projectile vomiting (Choice A) is more commonly associated with conditions like pyloric stenosis. Constipation (Choice D) is not a typical manifestation of intussusception; the condition usually presents with severe colicky abdominal pain and possible passage of blood and mucus in stools.

2. A child is brought to the clinic after tripping over a rock. The child states, 'I twisted my ankle,' and is given a diagnosis of a sprain. What intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the discharge instructions for this child?

• A. For the first 24 hours, apply ice for 20 minutes and remove for 60 minutes.
• B. Bed rest with the leg elevated for 36 hours.
• C. May take an NSAID for pain as prescribed.
• D. Use a compression dressing for 72 hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Applying ice in intervals helps to reduce swelling and pain in the first 24 hours after a sprain. This intervention is crucial in the initial management of a sprain to decrease inflammation and provide pain relief. Bed rest with the leg elevated for 36 hours (Choice B) is not recommended as prolonged immobilization can lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion. Allowing the child to take an NSAID for pain as prescribed (Choice C) is a supportive measure but not as essential as ice application in the acute phase. Using a compression dressing for 72 hours (Choice D) may assist in reducing swelling, but it is not as critical as the immediate application of ice to manage pain and inflammation effectively.

3. A young child has coarctation of the aorta. What does the nurse expect to identify when taking the child’s vital signs?

• A. A weak radial pulse
• B. An irregular heartbeat
• C. A bounding femoral pulse
• D. An elevated radial blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In coarctation of the aorta, there is narrowing of the aorta leading to decreased blood flow distal to the constriction. This results in a weak or delayed femoral pulse and a relatively weaker radial pulse compared to the femoral pulse. An irregular heartbeat (choice B) is not a typical finding in coarctation of the aorta. A bounding femoral pulse (choice C) would not be expected due to the decreased blood flow beyond the constriction. An elevated radial blood pressure (choice D) is not a common characteristic of coarctation of the aorta; instead, blood pressure may be higher in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to the constriction.

4. A child with a diagnosis of congenital heart disease is admitted to the hospital. What should the nurse include in the child’s care plan?

• A. Monitoring fluid status
• B. Encouraging activity
• C. Promoting a high-calorie diet
• D. Maintaining oxygen therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring fluid status is crucial for a child with congenital heart disease because these children are at risk of fluid overload, which can exacerbate their condition. Monitoring fluid intake and output helps prevent complications such as heart failure. Encouraging activity may be important, but it should be done cautiously and within limits due to the child's cardiac condition. Promoting a high-calorie diet is not typically a priority in congenital heart disease care unless there are specific indications. Maintaining oxygen therapy may be necessary in some cases but is not the primary intervention for managing congenital heart disease.

5. 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?

• A. Flat occiput
• B. Small, low-set ears
• C. Circumoral cyanosis
• D. Protruding furrowed tongue

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.

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