Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory report of an infant who is receiving treatment for severe dehydration. The professional should identify which of the following laboratory values indicates effectiveness of the current treatment?

• A. Potassium 2.9 mEq/L
• B. Sodium 140 mEq/L
• C. Urine specific gravity 1.035
• D. BUN 25 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A sodium level of 140 mEq/L within the expected reference range indicates effective treatment for dehydration. In dehydration, sodium levels are often elevated, so a normal sodium level suggests that the treatment is helping to restore the electrolyte balance in the infant's body.

2. A caregiver is learning about administering digoxin to a toddler. Which statement by the caregiver indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will mix the medication with a small amount of juice.
• B. I will give the medication with meals.
• C. I will give a second dose if my child vomits.
• D. I will give my child water after giving the medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement is D because giving the child water after administering digoxin helps ensure the medication is swallowed properly. Mixing the medication with juice (choice A) may affect its absorption. Giving the medication with meals (choice B) may interfere with its effectiveness. Administering a second dose if the child vomits (choice C) is not recommended as it may lead to an overdose.

3. A child is being cared for by a nurse and has rheumatic fever. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

• A. Administer aspirin to the child as prescribed based on the healthcare provider's instructions.
• B. Encourage adequate fluid intake for the child.
• C. Elevate the child's joints and provide warm compresses.
• D. Monitor the child's heart rate for dysrhythmias.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rheumatic fever can lead to cardiac complications, such as dysrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the child's heart rate closely for any signs of dysrhythmias. This will help in early identification and prompt management of potential cardiac issues associated with rheumatic fever. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority actions in this scenario. While aspirin may be used in the treatment of rheumatic fever, monitoring for cardiac complications takes precedence. Encouraging fluid intake and providing warm compresses are helpful interventions but do not directly address the cardiac risks associated with rheumatic fever.

4. During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, what action is crucial for a nurse to take?

• A. Administer meperidine for pain.
• B. Apply cold compresses to the child's joints.
• C. Limit the child's fluid intake.
• D. Maintain bed rest for the child.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing. Administering meperidine for pain (Choice A) is not recommended due to the risk of normeperidine accumulation and potential neurotoxicity. Applying cold compresses (Choice B) may cause vasoconstriction, worsening the vaso-occlusive crisis. Limiting fluid intake (Choice C) is not appropriate as adequate hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain blood flow.

5. Which is the priority nursing assessment when providing care for an infant at risk for dehydration?

• A. Urine output
• B. Urine specific gravity
• C. Vital signs
• D. Daily weight

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Daily weight. Daily weight is a crucial assessment in infants at risk for dehydration because changes in weight can indicate fluid balance and dehydration status. It is essential to monitor daily weight to promptly identify and manage dehydration in infants.

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