Nursing Elites

1. An infant is diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease. What nursing intervention is essential before surgery?

• A. Administering antibiotics
• B. Ensuring bowel rest
• C. Performing regular enemas
• D. Maintaining NPO status

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Maintaining NPO (nothing by mouth) status is essential before surgery for a patient with Hirschsprung disease to prevent aspiration. Administering antibiotics, ensuring bowel rest, and performing regular enemas are not the priority interventions before surgery for this condition. Administering antibiotics may be necessary in the postoperative period to prevent infection, ensuring bowel rest can be beneficial but is not the priority, and performing regular enemas is not typically recommended before surgery for Hirschsprung disease.

2. 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 a further assessment because it may indicate inadequate oxygenation or circulation, potentially related to cardiac or respiratory issues. Flat occiput (choice A) is a common finding in infants and is not typically concerning. Small, low-set ears (choice B) are common in Down syndrome and not specifically indicative of an acute issue requiring immediate further assessment. Protruding furrowed tongue (choice D) is also commonly seen in infants with Down syndrome and typically does not warrant immediate further assessment unless associated with other concerning signs or symptoms.

3. After surgery to correct hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) in a 3-week-old infant who had been formula-fed, which postoperative feeding order is appropriate?

• A. Thickened formula 24 hours after surgery
• B. Withholding feedings for the first 24 hours
• C. Regular formula feeding within 24 hours after surgery
• D. Additional glucose feedings as desired after the first 24 hours

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Following surgery for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) in infants, it is appropriate to resume regular formula feeding within 24 hours postoperatively to support recovery. This helps maintain adequate nutrition and hydration for the infant. Choice A is incorrect because thickened formula may not be necessary and could potentially cause issues postoperatively. Choice B is incorrect as withholding feedings for the first 24 hours can lead to nutritional deficiencies and delay recovery. Choice D is inappropriate as additional glucose feedings are not typically indicated postoperatively for infants with HPS and may not provide the necessary nutrition needed for recovery.

4. A nurse is caring for an infant born with exstrophy of the bladder. What does the nurse determine is the greatest risk for this infant?

• A. Infection
• B. Dehydration
• C. Urinary retention
• D. Intestinal obstruction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Infection is the greatest risk for an infant with exstrophy of the bladder due to the exposure of the bladder and surrounding tissues. The exposed bladder increases the risk of infection as it lacks the protective covering of the skin. Dehydration (Choice B) may occur but is not the greatest risk compared to infection. Urinary retention (Choice C) is less likely due to the nature of the condition. Intestinal obstruction (Choice D) is not directly associated with exstrophy of the bladder.

5. When a family decides to withhold 'extraordinary care' for a newborn with severe abnormalities, what does this decision indicate?

• A. The newborn has no rights.
• B. It is the same as euthanasia.
• C. It is illegal professional practice.
• D. The newborn is being allowed to die.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When a family decides to withhold 'extraordinary care' for a newborn with severe abnormalities, it means that aggressive interventions will not be pursued, allowing the newborn to die naturally. This decision is legal and ethical, respecting the principle of non-maleficence by avoiding unnecessary suffering. Choice A is incorrect because all individuals, including newborns, have rights, but the decision to withhold extraordinary care is based on ethical considerations. Choice B is incorrect as withholding care is not the same as euthanasia, which involves actively ending life. Choice C is incorrect as long as the decision is made within legal and ethical boundaries, it is not considered illegal professional practice.

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