Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for an infant with intractable vomiting. For what complication is it most important for the nurse to assess?

• A. Acidosis
• B. Alkalosis
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an infant experiences intractable vomiting, it can lead to the loss of stomach acids, resulting in metabolic alkalosis. Alkalosis is characterized by elevated blood pH and can lead to serious complications. Assessing for alkalosis is essential in this scenario to monitor and manage the infant's condition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because in this context, the primary concern is the metabolic imbalance caused by excessive vomiting, leading to alkalosis rather than acidosis, hyperkalemia, or hypernatremia.

2. During a primary survey of a child with partial thickness burns over the upper body areas, what action should the nurse take first?

• A. Inspect the child's skin color.
• B. Assess for a patent airway.
• C. Observe for symmetric breathing.
• D. Palpate the child's pulse.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When managing a child with partial thickness burns over the upper body areas, the priority action during the primary survey is to assess for a patent airway. This step is crucial as burns in this region can lead to airway compromise, potentially causing rapid deterioration in the child's condition. Checking for a patent airway ensures that the child can breathe adequately, which is essential for oxygenation and ventilation. Inspecting the child's skin color (Choice A) is an important assessment but should follow ensuring a patent airway. Observing for symmetric breathing (Choice C) is relevant, but the immediate focus should be on securing the airway. Palpating the child's pulse (Choice D) is also a vital assessment, but in this scenario, the priority is to assess and maintain a clear airway to support respiratory function and oxygen delivery.

3. Following delivery of a newborn, the 21-year-old mother is experiencing mild vaginal bleeding. You note that her heart rate has increased from 90 to 120 beats/min and she is diaphoretic. Management should include

• A. Oxygen, uterine massage, and transport
• B. Oxygen, placement on the left side, and transport
• C. Oxygen, treatment for shock, and uterine massage during transport
• D. Oxygen, internal vaginal pads, and treatment for shock during transport

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the 21-year-old mother is showing signs of hemorrhagic shock with increased heart rate, diaphoresis, and vaginal bleeding. The appropriate management includes providing oxygen to support tissue perfusion, treating for shock to restore adequate circulation, and performing uterine massage to help control bleeding during transport. Options A, B, and D do not address the comprehensive management needed for postpartum hemorrhage in this situation.

4. The nurse is planning a discussion group for parents with children who have cancer. How would the nurse describe a difference between cancer in children and adults?

• A. Most childhood cancers affect tissues rather than organs.
• B. Childhood cancers are usually localized when found.
• C. Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers are less responsive to treatment.
• D. The majority of childhood cancers can be prevented.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Most childhood cancers, such as leukemias and sarcomas, affect tissues rather than specific organs, unlike many adult cancers. Choice B is incorrect because childhood cancers can be localized or spread, similar to adult cancers. Choice C is incorrect because childhood cancers can be highly responsive to treatment, especially when diagnosed early. Choice D is incorrect because the majority of childhood cancers cannot be prevented as they are often due to genetic mutations or unknown causes.

5. 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.

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