Nursing Elites

1. In contrast to the contractions associated with true labor, Braxton-Hicks contractions:

• A. generally follow rupture of the amniotic sac and occur with regularity.
• B. may be intensified by activity and are accompanied by a pink discharge.
• C. do not increase in intensity and are alleviated by a change in position.
• D. consistently become stronger and are not alleviated by changing position.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Braxton-Hicks contractions are irregular and usually do not increase in intensity. Unlike true labor contractions, they tend to alleviate with a change in position, making option C the correct choice. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because Braxton-Hicks contractions do not follow rupture of the amniotic sac, are not intensified by activity or accompanied by a pink discharge, and do not consistently become stronger or are not alleviated by changing position.

2. A 4-year-old boy with a tracheostomy tube is experiencing respiratory distress. He has intercostal retractions, a heart rate of 80 beats/min, and an oxygen saturation of 85%. During his attempts to breathe, a gurgling sound is heard in the tracheostomy tube. You should:

• A. Ventilate through the tracheostomy tube.
• B. Place an oxygen mask over the tracheostomy tube.
• C. Remove the tracheostomy tube and clean it.
• D. Carefully suction the tracheostomy tube.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the 4-year-old boy with a tracheostomy tube is showing signs of respiratory distress, including intercostal retractions, a low heart rate, and decreased oxygen saturation. The gurgling sound indicates a possible airway obstruction. Correctly, the immediate action should be to carefully suction the tracheostomy tube. Suctioning can help clear any secretions or obstructions, thus improving the child's ability to breathe effectively. Ventilating through the tube, placing an oxygen mask over it, or removing and cleaning the tube would not address the potential obstruction and could worsen the respiratory distress.

3. Which position is MOST appropriate for a mother in labor with a prolapsed umbilical cord?

• A. Supine with legs elevated
• B. Supine with hips elevated
• C. Left lateral recumbent
• D. Left side with legs elevated

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate position for a mother in labor with a prolapsed umbilical cord is supine with hips elevated. This position helps reduce pressure on the cord, preventing further complications and ensuring optimal blood flow to the fetus.

4. How should the nurse prepare the sibling of a near-drowning accident victim who wants to see his brother in the pediatric intensive care unit, considering the child was present during the accident?

• A. Have the parents explain to the child why the sibling is so sick and inform the child that this could be the last time he sees his brother.
• B. Reassure the sibling not to cry in the child's room to avoid upsetting the ill child.
• C. If death is imminent, avoid informing the child about it and minimize involvement in care to protect the child from further trauma.
• D. Cover tubes and wires with a sheet, wash off any existing blood, and prepare him for what he will see.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When preparing a sibling to see their brother in the pediatric intensive care unit after a near-drowning accident, it is essential to cover tubes and wires with a sheet, wash off any existing blood, and explain what the sibling will see. This approach helps the sibling understand the situation better and prepares them emotionally for the encounter, reducing potential distress and trauma. By providing information and visual preparation, the sibling can have a more controlled and less overwhelming experience when visiting their brother in the intensive care unit. Choice A is incorrect as informing the child that this could be the last time he sees his sibling may cause unnecessary distress and anxiety. Choice B is incorrect as it dismisses the sibling's emotional response, which is essential to address in a supportive manner. Choice C is incorrect as honesty and appropriate information sharing are crucial, even in difficult situations, to help the child cope effectively with the circumstances.

5. When assisting ventilations in a 4-year-old child with a bag-valve mask, what should the EMT do?

• A. Deliver each breath over 2 to 3 seconds.
• B. Ensure the appropriate mask size is used.
• C. Block the pop-off valve if needed to achieve adequate chest rise.
• D. Reassess the pulse rate after 60 seconds.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When assisting ventilations in a 4-year-old child with a bag-valve mask, the EMT should block the pop-off valve if needed to achieve adequate chest rise. This action helps ensure effective ventilation and adequate oxygenation in the child. Blocking the pop-off valve allows for better control over the volume of air delivered and can help maintain positive pressure in the airway, assisting in improving oxygenation and ventilation in the child. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because delivering each breath over 2 to 3 seconds is a general guideline but may need adjustment based on patient response, ensuring the appropriate mask size is important but not the primary concern in this scenario, and reassessing the pulse rate is not directly related to the ventilation technique being discussed.

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