Nursing Elites

1. Congenital heart defects have traditionally been divided into acyanotic or cyanotic defects. Based on the nurse’s knowledge of congenital heart defects, this system in clinical practice is

• A. helpful because it explains the hemodynamics involved
• B. helpful because children with cyanotic defects are easily identified
• C. problematic because cyanosis is rarely present in children
• D. problematic because children with acyanotic heart defects may develop cyanosis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The classification system of congenital heart defects into acyanotic or cyanotic defects is problematic because children with acyanotic heart defects may develop cyanosis, complicating the differentiation. Cyanosis can occur in some acyanotic defects due to various reasons such as right-to-left shunting or decreased pulmonary blood flow, making the classification based solely on cyanosis misleading. Choice A is incorrect because while the classification may involve hemodynamics, the main issue lies in the potential for acyanotic defects to develop cyanosis. Choice B is incorrect as the ease of identifying children with cyanotic defects does not address the main problem with the classification system. Choice C is also incorrect as the presence of cyanosis is not the only factor determining the classification's validity.

2. The parent of a 2-year-old child is informed by the nurse that the toddler’s negativism is expected at this age. What need is this behavior meeting?

• A. Trust
• B. Attention
• C. Discipline
• D. Independence

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Negativism in toddlers commonly occurs around the age of 2 as they begin to assert their independence and autonomy. At this stage, children are exploring their own will and preferences, leading to behaviors like defiance or negativism. Independence (choice D) is the primary need being met by this behavior as toddlers strive to establish their individuality and decision-making. While trust (choice A) is crucial for forming secure attachments, it is not the main need driving negativism in this case. Seeking attention (choice B) may be a behavior exhibited by children, but it is not the fundamental need being fulfilled by negativism. Discipline (choice C) is important for setting boundaries and teaching appropriate conduct, but it is not the primary need being addressed by negativism in toddlers.

3. During a health assessment of a school-age child, where should the nurse focus more attention based on the child's developmental level?

• A. Infections
• B. Poisonings
• C. Risk-taking behaviors
• D. Accidents and injuries

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the school-age period, children are active, curious, and engaged in various physical activities, making them more susceptible to accidents and injuries. This developmental stage is characterized by increased motor skills and exploration, leading to a higher risk of unintentional harm. While infections, poisonings, and risk-taking behaviors are also concerns for school-age children, focusing on preventing and addressing accidents and injuries is essential due to their heightened physical activity and curiosity.

4. The child has been admitted for a sickle cell crisis. What would the nurse do first to provide adequate pain management?

• A. Administer a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) as ordered.
• B. Use guided imagery and therapeutic touch.
• C. Administer meperidine as ordered.
• D. Initiate pain assessment with a standardized pain scale.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Initiating pain assessment with a standardized pain scale is crucial in managing pain effectively during a sickle cell crisis. This step allows the nurse to objectively evaluate the child's pain level and tailor the pain management plan accordingly. Administering medication without a proper assessment could lead to inappropriate pain management. Using guided imagery and therapeutic touch may be beneficial as adjunct therapies but should not replace the initial pain assessment. Meperidine is not typically the first-line choice for pain management in sickle cell crisis due to its potential for neurotoxic metabolites.

5. Why should a nurse plan an evening snack for a child receiving Novolin N insulin?

• A. To encourage the child to adhere to the diet.
• B. To provide energy for immediate use.
• C. To help the child gain weight with extra calories.
• D. To counteract late insulin activity with nourishment.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Novolin N insulin peaks in the evening, which can lead to hypoglycemia during the night. Providing an evening snack helps to counteract the late insulin activity and prevent hypoglycemia. Choice A is incorrect because the primary reason for the evening snack is not to encourage adherence to the diet. Choice B is incorrect as the snack is not primarily for immediate energy use. Choice C is incorrect as the goal of the snack is not to help the child gain weight but to manage blood sugar levels.

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