ATI RN
RN Nursing Care of Children Online Practice 2019 A
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 is the appropriate method for measuring the temperature of a 2-day-old neonate?
- A. Tympanic
- B. Oral
- C. Axillary
- D. Rectal
Correct answer: C
Rationale: For a 2-day-old neonate, the most suitable method to measure temperature is the axillary method. This approach is considered safe and appropriate for neonates, minimizing the risk of injury. Tympanic temperature measurement may not be as accurate in neonates due to their small ear canals. Oral temperature measurement is not recommended for neonates as they may not be able to hold a thermometer properly in their mouths. Rectal temperature measurement is invasive and carries a higher risk of injury and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
3. What clinical manifestation(s) should the nurse expect to see as shock progresses in a child and becomes decompensated shock?
- A. Thirst
- B. Irritability
- C. Apprehension
- D. Confusion and somnolence
Correct answer: D
Rationale: As shock progresses and decompensation occurs, confusion and somnolence are indicative of reduced cerebral perfusion. Early signs include thirst and irritability, while confusion and altered consciousness appear as the condition worsens.
4. What is the most effective way to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?
- A. Use a firm mattress
- B. Place the baby on their back to sleep
- C. Keep the room warm
- D. Breastfeed exclusively
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to place the baby on their back to sleep. This position is the most effective way to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) according to research and recommendations from healthcare providers. Choice A, using a firm mattress, is important for infant safety but not as directly related to preventing SIDS. Keeping the room warm, as mentioned in choice C, is not recommended as it may increase the risk of SIDS. While breastfeeding has many benefits, choice D, breastfeeding exclusively is not the most effective method for preventing SIDS.
5. 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.