Nursing Elites

1. A thorough systemic physical assessment is necessary in the extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) infant to detect what?

• A. Weight gain reflective of fluid retention
• B. Difficulties in maternal-child attachment
• C. Subtle changes that may be indicative of an underlying problem
• D. Changes in Apgar score over the first 24 hours of life

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) infants, a thorough systemic physical assessment is crucial to detect subtle changes that may indicate an underlying problem. These infants are highly vulnerable and may show signs of stress through changes in feeding behavior, activity, color, oxygen saturation, or vital signs. Monitoring weight in ELBW infants primarily reflects genitourinary function rather than fluid retention. Difficulties in maternal-child attachment are important but are usually assessed during parental visits and are not the primary focus of a systemic physical assessment. Changes in the Apgar score are used immediately after birth to assess the transition to extrauterine life and are not as relevant in the following 24 hours to detect ongoing subtle issues.

2. What is the most appropriate action for a child with epistaxis?

• A. Have the child lie flat
• B. Pinch the nose and lean forward
• C. Apply a warm compress to the nose
• D. Encourage deep breathing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate action for a child with epistaxis is to pinch the nose and lean forward. This technique helps stop the bleeding and prevent aspiration of blood. By applying pressure to the bleeding vessels and allowing the blood to drain out of the nostrils instead of being swallowed, the risk of nausea and airway obstruction is reduced. Having the child lie flat (Choice A) may lead to blood flowing down the throat, causing potential choking. Applying a warm compress (Choice C) is not typically recommended for epistaxis as cold compresses are more effective. Encouraging deep breathing (Choice D) is not directly related to managing epistaxis.

3. The nurse is caring for an infant who was born 24 hr ago to a mother who received no prenatal care. The infant is a poor feeder but sucks avidly on his hands. Clinical manifestations also include hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, and a high-pitched shrill cry. What does the nurse consider as a possible diagnosis for this infant?

• A. Seizure disorder
• B. Narcotic withdrawal
• C. Placental insufficiency
• D. Meconium aspiration syndrome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this case, the infant's symptoms are consistent with narcotic withdrawal. Infants exposed to drugs in utero may display withdrawal symptoms starting around 12 to 24 hours post-birth. The presentation often includes hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, high-pitched shrill cry, poor feeding, and sucking avidly on hands. Signs such as loose stools, tachycardia, fever, projectile vomiting, sneezing, and generalized sweating are common. These symptoms are not indicative of a seizure disorder. Placental insufficiency typically leads to a small-for-gestational-age child, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Meconium aspiration syndrome primarily presents with respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in this case.

4. Which distraction technique should be used for an adolescent child during a painful procedure?

• A. Blowing bubbles
• B. Guided imagery
• C. EMLA cream
• D. Sucrose solution

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Guided imagery. Guided imagery is an effective distraction technique for adolescents as it helps them focus on positive mental images instead of the pain. This technique can be a powerful tool in managing pain and anxiety during procedures. Blowing bubbles (choice A) may be more suitable for younger children as it can engage them visually and help distract them. EMLA cream (choice C) is a topical anesthetic and not a distraction technique. Sucrose solution (choice D) is used for pain relief in infants, not typically for adolescents undergoing painful procedures.

5. The nurse is teaching a parent with a 2-month-old infant who has been diagnosed with colic about ways to relieve colic. Which statement by the parent indicates the need for additional teaching?

• A. I should let my infant cry for at least 30 minutes before I respond.
• B. I will swaddle my infant tightly with a soft blanket.
• C. I should massage my infant's abdomen whenever possible.
• D. I will place my infant in an upright seat after feeding.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Letting an infant cry for prolonged periods can exacerbate colic and increase the infant's distress. It is better to respond promptly to soothe the baby. Other methods like swaddling, gentle massage, and keeping the infant upright can help relieve colic symptoms.

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