Nursing Elites

1. An infant with hydrocephalus is hospitalized for surgical placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Postoperative nursing care would include what?

• A. Monitor closely for signs of infection.
• B. Place the child with the operative side of the head up.
• C. Avoid pumping the shunt reservoir to maintain patency.
• D. Avoid maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

2. The clinic nurse is instructing parents about caring for a toddler with ascariasis (common roundworm). Which statement made by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. We will wash our hands often, especially after diaper changes
• B. We know that roundworm can be transmitted from person to person
• C. We will be sure to continue the nitazoxanide (Alinia) orally for 3 days
• D. We will bring a stool sample to the clinic for examination in 2 weeks

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Roundworm (ascariasis) is typically transmitted through ingestion of contaminated soil, not directly from person to person. This statement indicates a misunderstanding requiring clarification.

3. How is masturbation in the pre-school child viewed?

• A. Abnormal behavior that needs to be dealt with immediately
• B. Disruptive to the family
• C. Normal behavior that can best be dealt with by ignoring and providing distraction
• D. Embarrassing to the parents

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Masturbation in preschool children is a normal behavior as they explore their bodies. It is best viewed as a natural part of development. Parents are often advised to ignore it and provide distractions rather than making the child feel ashamed or embarrassed. Choice A is incorrect because it is a natural behavior and not considered abnormal in this context. Choice B is incorrect as it does not necessarily disrupt the family. Choice D is incorrect as the focus should be on the child's development and well-being, not on the parents' feelings of embarrassment.

4. A toddler’s mother calls the nurse because she thinks her son has swallowed a button type of battery. He has no signs of respiratory distress. The nurse’s response should be based on which premise?

• A. An emergency laparotomy is very likely.
• B. The location needs to be confirmed by radiographic examination.
• C. Surgery will be necessary if the battery has not passed in the stool in 48 hours.
• D. Careful observation is essential because an ingested battery cannot be accurately detected.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Radiographic examination is essential to confirm the location of the battery, as it can cause significant damage, particularly if lodged in the esophagus. Immediate surgery may be required depending on its location and the potential for causing harm.

5. Which heart sound is produced by vibrations within the heart chambers or in the major arteries from the back-and-forth flow of blood?

• A. S1 and S2
• B. S3 and S4
• C. Murmur
• D. Physiologic splitting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A murmur is produced by turbulent blood flow within the heart or major arteries, resulting in audible vibrations.

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