Nursing Elites

1. Melena, the passage of black, tarry stools, suggests bleeding from which source?

• A. The perianal or rectal area
• B. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract
• C. The lower GI tract
• D. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Melena indicates bleeding from the upper GI tract. The black, tarry appearance of the stool results from the partial digestion of blood as it passes through the intestines, typically originating from sources like the stomach or duodenum. Lower GI bleeding usually presents as bright red blood in the stool, originating from sources like the colon or rectum. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because melena specifically points to upper GI bleeding rather than issues in the perianal/rectal area, lower GI tract, or hemorrhoids/anal fissures.

2. A newborn has been diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease. The parent asks the nurse about the symptoms that led to the diagnosis. Which symptoms should the nurse include in the response?

• A. Acute diarrhea and dehydration
• B. Current jelly-like stools and pain
• C. Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension
• D. Projectile vomiting and altered electrolytes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Failure to pass meconium and abdominal distension. Hirschsprung’s disease is commonly diagnosed in newborns due to the failure to pass meconium within the first 24-48 hours after birth and abdominal distension, indicating a bowel obstruction. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not correspond to the typical symptoms of Hirschsprung’s disease. Acute diarrhea and dehydration, current jelly-like stools and pain, and projectile vomiting with altered electrolytes are not characteristic of this condition.

3. Nurses should be alert for increased fluid requirements in which circumstance?

• A. Fever
• B. Mechanical ventilation
• C. Congestive heart failure
• D. Increased intracranial pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fever increases metabolic rate, leading to insensible water loss, thus requiring increased fluid intake. Mechanical ventilation, CHF, and increased intracranial pressure generally require fluid restriction rather than increased fluid intake.

4. A teenager is accompanied by his mother to the annual physical examination. The nurse is aware of privacy issues related to the teenager. While the mother is in the room, which topic should the nurse avoid?

• A. School performance
• B. Seatbelt use
• C. Cigarette smoking
• D. School friends

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cigarette smoking. Discussing sensitive topics like cigarette smoking in the presence of a parent may inhibit the teenager's willingness to be open and honest. It's important to provide an opportunity for the teenager to speak privately with the healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and D are more general topics that can be discussed openly in front of the parent without compromising the teenager's privacy or comfort.

5. An 8-year-old girl asks the nurse how the blood pressure apparatus works. The most appropriate nursing action is which?

• A. Ask her why she wants to know.
• B. Determine why she is so anxious.
• C. Explain in simple terms how it works.
• D. Tell her she will see how it works as it is used.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Providing a simple explanation satisfies the child's curiosity and helps reduce any anxiety about the procedure.

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