a nurse is providing care to a child with a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia what is the priority nursing intervention
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatric HESI 2024

1. When caring for a child diagnosed with sickle cell anemia, what is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention when caring for a child with sickle cell anemia is administering pain medication. Pain management is crucial in sickle cell anemia due to vaso-occlusive crises that can cause severe pain. While ensuring adequate hydration, providing nutritional support, and monitoring vital signs are important aspects of care for a child with sickle cell anemia, addressing the pain with appropriate medication takes precedence to alleviate the child's suffering and improve their quality of life.

2. What is the most common cause of seizures in children?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Seizures in children most often result from a temperature greater than 102°F, known as febrile seizures. Febrile seizures are commonly triggered by a rapid increase in body temperature due to infections or other causes. Choice A is incorrect as febrile seizures are not necessarily caused by the abrupt rise in body temperature alone. Choice B is incorrect as inflammatory processes in the brain may lead to other types of seizures but are not the most common cause in children. Choice D is incorrect as not all seizures in children are due to life-threatening infections.

3. The nurse is developing a teaching plan for a child who is to have his cast removed. What instruction would the nurse most likely include?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching plan is to advise the child to soak the area in warm water every day. Soaking the area in warm water helps to gently remove dead skin without causing irritation, facilitating the safe and comfortable removal of the cast. Applying petroleum jelly (Choice A) may not be necessary and could interfere with the cast removal process. Rubbing the skin vigorously (Choice B) can lead to skin damage and should be avoided. Washing the skin with diluted peroxide and water (Choice D) is not recommended as peroxide can be irritating to the skin and may not aid in cast removal.

4. During postoperative care for a child who has had a tonsillectomy, what is an important nursing intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering antibiotics is crucial post-tonsillectomy to prevent infection, as the surgical site is susceptible to bacterial growth. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can also be beneficial for lung expansion and preventing respiratory complications. However, administering antibiotics takes precedence as it directly addresses the risk of infection. Encouraging the child to eat may not be appropriate immediately post-tonsillectomy due to the risk of throat irritation and potential discomfort. Applying ice to the throat is typically not recommended after a tonsillectomy, as it may constrict blood vessels and hinder the healing process.

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

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.

Similar Questions

A group of students is reviewing the components of the endocrine system. The students demonstrate understanding of the review when they identify what as the primary function of this system?
The nurse is assessing a family to determine if they have access to adequate health care. Which statement accurately describes how certain families are affected by common barriers to health care?
A child with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?
A nurse on the pediatric unit is observing the developmental skills of several 2-year-old children in the playroom. Which child should the nurse continue to evaluate?
An order is written for an isotonic enema for a 2-year-old child. What is the maximum amount of fluid the nurse should administer without a specific order from the health care provider?

Access More Features

HESI LPN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All HESI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

HESI LPN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All HESI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses