Nursing Elites

1. A school-age child is 4 hours postoperative following perforated appendicitis repair. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Maintain the child on a clear liquid diet for 48 hours.
• B. Administer antibiotics for 7 days.
• C. Apply warm compresses to the surgical site every 4 hours.
• D. Keep the child on NPO status for 24 hours.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering antibiotics for 7 days is essential postoperatively to prevent infections and complications in a child who underwent perforated appendicitis repair. This helps in reducing the risk of secondary infections and promoting healing. Clear liquid diets, warm compresses, and prolonged fasting are not the primary interventions indicated in this scenario.

2. A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a school-age child who is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

• A. Elevate the head of the child's bed
• B. Insert a large-bore IV catheter for the child
• C. Determine the allergen that caused the child's reaction
• D. Administer IM epinephrine to the child

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the management of anaphylaxis, the priority action for the nurse is to administer IM epinephrine to the child. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis as it helps reverse the severe manifestations of the reaction by constricting blood vessels, relaxing airway muscles, and decreasing hives and swelling. Elevating the head of the child's bed may be beneficial for respiratory distress but is not the priority over administering epinephrine. Inserting a large-bore IV catheter may be necessary for fluid resuscitation but is not the initial priority. Identifying the allergen is important for prevention and future management but is not the immediate action needed in the acute phase of an anaphylactic reaction.

3. Which clinical manifestation should a nurse monitor for when assessing a pediatric client diagnosed with a basilar skull fracture?

• A. Periorbital ecchymosis
• B. Subdural hematoma
• C. Protruding bone
• D. Epidural hematoma

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Periorbital ecchymosis, also known as raccoon eyes, is a classic sign of a basilar skull fracture. It presents as bruising around the eyes due to blood collecting in the tissues. Monitoring for periorbital ecchymosis is crucial in assessing a pediatric client with a basilar skull fracture because it can indicate the presence of this serious injury.

4. A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parent of a child who has juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?

• A. Encourage the child to sleep for 8 hours each night.
• B. Perform range-of-motion exercises once per week.
• C. Give your child NSAIDs on a regular schedule.
• D. Apply heat to the child's affected joints twice daily.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should instruct the parent to give the child NSAIDs on a regular schedule to maintain therapeutic levels and control pain.

5. What is an appropriate intervention for the edematous child with reduced mobility related to nephrotic syndrome?

• A. Assist the child in minimizing body movements.
• B. Change the child's position frequently.
• C. Maintain the child's bed flat.
• D. Keep edematous areas moist and covered.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Changing the child's position frequently is essential for preventing respiratory tract infections and reducing pressure on delicate skin, which are common risks for edematous children with reduced mobility due to nephrotic syndrome. This intervention helps promote circulation and prevents complications associated with prolonged immobility.

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