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. What problem is most often associated with myelomeningocele?

• A. Biliary atresia
• B. Hydrocephalus
• C. Craniostenosis
• D. Tracheoesophageal fistula

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hydrocephalus is the most commonly associated problem with myelomeningocele, present in 80% to 90% of affected children. Biliary atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula are not typically associated with myelomeningocele. Craniostenosis refers to the premature closing of cranial sutures and is not a common issue seen with myelomeningocele.

3. A new mom is instructed to have her toddler brush his teeth every night after dinner. This is an example of __________ which increases the toddler’s sense of security and self-mastery.

• A. Negativism
• B. Diversionary activity
• C. Critical play
• D. Ritualism

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Ritualism. Establishing routines like brushing teeth every night after dinner helps toddlers feel secure and in control. Choice A, Negativism, refers to a child's oppositional behavior. Choice B, Diversionary activity, involves redirecting attention to something else. Choice C, Critical play, does not relate to the scenario of establishing a routine for the toddler.

4. The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment on a 10-year-old girl. The nurse gives her the option of her mother staying in the room or leaving. This action should be considered which?

• A. Appropriate because of the child's age
• B. Appropriate, but the mother may be uncomfortable
• C. Inappropriate because of the child's age
• D. Inappropriate because the child is the same sex as the mother

Correct answer: A

Rationale: It is appropriate to give a 10-year-old the choice of having a parent present or not during an exam, respecting the child's growing need for privacy.

5. The nurse is caring for a child with a urinary tract infection who is on trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim). What side effects of this medication should the nurse teach to the parents and the child? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Rash
• B. Urticaria
• C. All are applicable
• D. Photosensitivity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) can cause side effects like rash, urticaria, and photosensitivity. Parents and the child should be educated on these potential side effects to ensure prompt recognition and management.

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