Nursing Elites

1. A parent brings a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome to the pediatric clinic for a physical and administration of immunizations. Which clinical finding should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment?

• A. Flat occiput
• B. Small, low-set ears
• C. Circumoral cyanosis
• D. Protruding furrowed tongue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform further assessment in a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome. This finding may indicate cardiac or respiratory issues, such as inadequate oxygenation. Small, low-set ears and a protruding furrowed tongue are common physical characteristics associated with Down syndrome and may not necessarily warrant immediate further assessment. A flat occiput is a normal variation in infant anatomy and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in this context.

2. Which observation made of the exposed abdomen is most indicative of pyloric stenosis?

• A. abdominal rigidity
• B. substernal retraction
• C. palpable olive-like mass
• D. marked distention of lower abdomen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: palpable olive-like mass. In pyloric stenosis, a palpable olive-like mass can often be felt in the abdomen due to the hypertrophied pyloric muscle. This mass is a key characteristic finding in infants with pyloric stenosis. Choice A, abdominal rigidity, is more commonly associated with conditions like peritonitis. Choice B, substernal retraction, is not typically seen in pyloric stenosis but can be a sign of respiratory distress. Choice D, marked distention of the lower abdomen, is not specific to pyloric stenosis and can be present in various abdominal conditions.

3. A child with a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia is admitted to the hospital with a vaso-occlusive crisis. What is the most important nursing intervention?

• A. Administering oxygen
• B. Administering pain medication
• C. Monitoring fluid intake
• D. Encouraging physical activity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, the priority nursing intervention is administering pain medication. Pain management is crucial to alleviate the intense pain experienced by the child. While administering oxygen can help improve oxygenation, it is not the most critical intervention during a vaso-occlusive crisis. Monitoring fluid intake is important for overall care but is not the immediate priority during a crisis. Encouraging physical activity is contraindicated during a vaso-occlusive crisis as it can worsen the pain and the crisis itself.

4. A child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy is to receive prednisone as part of their treatment plan. After teaching the child's parents about this drug, which statement by the parents indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. We should give this drug after he eats something.
• B. We need to watch carefully for possible infections.
• C. The drug should not be stopped abruptly.
• D. He might experience weight gain with this drug.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement should be, 'We should give this drug after he eats something.' Prednisone should be administered with food to help prevent gastrointestinal upset. Choice B is correct as monitoring for infections is important due to prednisone's immunosuppressive effects. Choice C is correct as prednisone should not be stopped suddenly to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Choice D is correct as weight gain is a common side effect of prednisone.

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

• A. Encouraging deep breathing exercises
• B. Encouraging the child to eat
• C. Administering antibiotics
• D. Applying ice to the throat

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.

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