Nursing Elites

1. During a physical examination of an infant with Down syndrome, what anomaly should the healthcare provider assess the child for?

• A. Bulging fontanels
• B. Stiff lower extremities
• C. Abnormal heart sounds
• D. Unusual pupillary reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Infants with Down syndrome are at increased risk of congenital heart defects. Therefore, assessing for abnormal heart sounds is crucial during the physical examination. Bulging fontanels are not typically associated with Down syndrome and may indicate increased intracranial pressure. Stiff lower extremities are not a common finding in Down syndrome and may suggest other musculoskeletal issues. Unusual pupillary reactions are not typically linked to Down syndrome and may be indicative of neurological problems instead.

2. An 8-year-old girl was diagnosed with a closed fracture of the radius at approximately 2 p.m. The fracture was reduced in the emergency department, and her arm placed in a cast. At 11 p.m., her mother brings her back to the emergency department due to unrelenting pain that has not been relieved by the prescribed narcotics. Which action would be the priority?

• A. Notifying the doctor immediately
• B. Applying ice
• C. Elevating the arm
• D. Giving additional pain medication as ordered

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct action would be to notify the doctor immediately. Unrelenting pain despite medication can indicate compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Applying ice or elevating the arm may not address the potential serious underlying issue of compartment syndrome. Giving additional pain medication without further assessment could delay necessary intervention and potentially worsen the condition.

3. A child has been diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, and a nurse is providing care. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering diuretics
• B. Monitoring urine output
• C. Administering corticosteroids
• D. Restricting fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention when caring for a child with nephrotic syndrome is monitoring urine output. This is essential for assessing kidney function and managing the condition effectively. Administering diuretics (Choice A) may be a part of the treatment plan but should not be the priority over monitoring urine output. Administering corticosteroids (Choice C) may also be a treatment for nephrotic syndrome, but monitoring urine output takes precedence. Restricting fluid intake (Choice D) may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the priority intervention compared to monitoring urine output for early detection of changes in kidney function.

4. 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.

5. What is the priority nursing responsibility when a 3-year-old child in a crib has a clamped jaw and is having a tonic-clonic seizure?

• A. Apply restraints.
• B. Administer oxygen.
• C. Protect the child from self-injury.
• D. Insert a plastic airway in the child’s mouth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the priority nursing responsibility is to protect the child from self-injury. Applying restraints is not recommended during a seizure as it can lead to further harm. Administering oxygen may be necessary after the seizure to support oxygenation, but it is not the priority during the seizure itself. Inserting a plastic airway is also not indicated as the jaw is clamped, and the child should not have anything placed in the mouth during a seizure. Therefore, the correct action is to ensure the child's safety by protecting them from self-injury, preventing harm from uncontrolled movements and potential falls.

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