Nursing Elites

1. A parent brings an 18-month-old toddler to the clinic. The parent states, 'My child is so difficult to please, has temper tantrums, and annoys me by throwing food from the table.' What is the nurse’s best response?

• A. “Toddlers need discipline to prevent the development of antisocial behaviors.”
• B. “Toddlers are learning to assert independence, and this behavior is expected at this age.”
• C. “It is best to leave the toddler alone in the crib after calmly explaining why the behavior is unacceptable.”
• D. “This is the way a toddler expresses needs, and this behavior is acceptable during the initiative stage of development.”

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: “Toddlers are learning to assert independence, and this behavior is expected at this age.” At 18 months, toddlers are in the stage of developing autonomy and independence. They may exhibit behaviors like temper tantrums and defiance as they assert their independence and test limits. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to understand that these behaviors are typical for toddlers at this age. Choice A is incorrect because discipline should be age-appropriate and focus on positive reinforcement rather than preventing antisocial behaviors. Choice C is inappropriate as leaving a toddler alone in a crib after explaining unacceptable behavior is not a recommended approach and can lead to feelings of abandonment. Choice D is inaccurate as the described behavior is more related to asserting independence rather than the initiative stage of development.

2. While assessing an 18-month-old child, a nurse observes that the toddler can crawl upstairs but needs assistance when climbing the stairs upright. What does this action indicate to the nurse?

• A. Presence of talipes equinovarus
• B. Reflective of neurologic damage
• C. Expected behavior in a toddler of this age
• D. Existence of developmental dysplasia of the hip

Correct answer: C

Rationale: At 18 months of age, needing assistance to climb stairs upright is considered normal behavior for a toddler. Crawling upstairs is a different motor skill and does not necessarily correlate with the ability to climb stairs. The child is still developing gross motor skills, and climbing stairs upright typically requires more coordination and strength, which may not be fully developed at this age. Choices A, B, and D are not relevant in this scenario as the observed behavior is within the expected range of development for an 18-month-old child.

3. A 3-year-old child with a history of frequent respiratory infections is being evaluated for cystic fibrosis. What diagnostic test should the nurse anticipate will be ordered?

• A. Chest X-ray
• B. Sweat chloride test
• C. Pulmonary function test
• D. Sputum culture

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The sweat chloride test is the gold standard diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis as it measures the concentration of chloride in sweat. In cystic fibrosis, there is an abnormal transport of chloride across epithelial membranes, leading to elevated sweat chloride levels. A chest X-ray may show characteristic changes in the lungs associated with cystic fibrosis, but it is not a definitive diagnostic test. Pulmonary function tests assess lung function but do not specifically diagnose cystic fibrosis. Sputum culture may identify respiratory infections but does not confirm the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.

4. When a mother confides in the nurse that she is contemplating divorce, which suggestion by the nurse would help minimize the effects on the child?

• A. Tell the child together using appropriate terms.
• B. Reassure the child that no one loves him more than his parents.
• C. Engage in special activities with the child to compensate for the divorce.
• D. Discuss your feelings with the child.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is essential for both parents to inform the child about the divorce together, using age-appropriate language. This approach can help minimize the negative impact on the child by providing a sense of unity and understanding. Choice B is incorrect because offering false reassurance about love may not address the child's concerns effectively, as the situation is complex. Choice C is not suitable as engaging in special activities cannot substitute for the emotional stability that the child may lose due to the divorce. Choice D is incorrect because sharing the parent's feelings may burden the child with adult emotions, which could be overwhelming and confusing for their developmental stage.

5. A nurse is developing a teaching plan for an 8-year-old child who has recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. What developmental characteristic of a child this age should the nurse consider?

• A. Child is in the concrete operational stage of cognition.
• B. Child’s dependence on peer influence is increasing.
• C. Child will welcome opportunities for participation in self-care.
• D. Child’s developmental stage involves achieving a sense of autonomy.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. At the age of 8, children are typically in the stage of industry vs. inferiority according to Erikson's psychosocial theory. This stage is characterized by a desire to engage in productive activities and take on responsibilities. Thus, the child will likely welcome opportunities for participation in self-care related to their diabetes management. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is inaccurate as children at this age are usually in the concrete operational stage of cognitive development, not abstract. Choice B is incorrect because while peer influence is significant, it has not reached its peak at this age. Choice D is wrong as achieving a sense of identity is a developmental task more commonly associated with adolescence, not 8-year-old children.

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