Nursing Elites

1. Justine is admitted to the pediatric unit due to the occurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis signaling a new diagnosis of diabetes. The diabetes team explores the cause of the episode and takes steps to prevent a recurrence. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) results from an excessive accumulation of which of the following?

• A. Sodium bicarbonate from renal compensation
• B. Potassium from cell death
• C. Glucose from carbohydrate metabolism
• D. Ketone bodies from fat metabolism

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) results from the excessive accumulation of ketone bodies from fat metabolism. During DKA, there is a lack of insulin leading to the breakdown of fat stores into fatty acids and their subsequent conversion into ketone bodies. These ketone bodies accumulate in the blood, leading to metabolic acidosis and the characteristic symptoms of DKA.

2. A 3-year-old is seen in the clinic and is diagnosed with an ear infection. The father reports that the child was awake several times during the night, crying. The PRIORITY nursing diagnosis for this child is:

• A. Sleep Pattern Disturbance related to pain.
• B. Pain related to ear infection.
• C. Altered Family Processes related to ill child.
• D. Ineffective Thermoregulation Related to Infection

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a child diagnosed with an ear infection and experiencing nighttime awakenings and crying would be 'Pain related to ear infection.' Pain management is crucial to ensure the child's comfort and well-being, which can also impact their sleep patterns. Addressing the pain as a priority can lead to improved sleep and overall recovery for the child.

3. A child with type 1 diabetes mellitus is brought to the emergency department by the mother, who states that the child has been complaining of abdominal pain and has been lethargic. Diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed. Anticipating the plan of care, the nurse prepares to administer which type of intravenous (IV) infusion?

• A. 5% dextrose infusion
• B. Normal saline infusion
• C. NPH insulin infusion
• D. Potassium infusion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the initial intravenous (IV) fluid of choice is normal saline infusion. Normal saline helps to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances commonly seen in DKA patients. It does not contain glucose to prevent worsening hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis. NPH insulin infusion is not the initial treatment for DKA; it is typically used after fluid resuscitation. Potassium infusion may be required in DKA to address electrolyte imbalances, but normal saline is the priority for fluid resuscitation.

4. Seizures in children MOST often result from:

• A. a life-threatening infection.
• B. an inflammatory process in the brain.
• C. an abrupt rise in body temperature.
• D. a temperature greater than 102°F.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Seizures in children most often result from febrile seizures, which are triggered by an abrupt rise in body temperature. Febrile seizures are common in young children, especially between the ages of 6 months to 5 years, and are usually associated with viral infections that cause a sudden spike in body temperature. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while infections, inflammatory processes, and high temperatures can sometimes lead to seizures, the most common cause of seizures in children is an abrupt increase in body temperature, known as febrile seizures.

5. Which of the following is a more reliable indicator of perfusion in children than in adults?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Heart rate
• C. Respiratory rate
• D. Capillary refill

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Capillary refill is a more reliable indicator of perfusion in children than in adults. This is because children have more compliant vessels, making capillary refill a more sensitive indicator of perfusion status in this population. In contrast, while blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate are important indicators, they may not be as reliable in children as capillary refill. Blood pressure can be affected by various factors such as anxiety or pain, heart rate can be influenced by emotions or temperature, and respiratory rate may vary with activity levels. Therefore, capillary refill is preferred in children for a more accurate assessment of perfusion.

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