Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is caring for a school-age child with primary nephrotic syndrome who is taking prednisone. After 1 week of treatment, which manifestation indicates to the nurse that the medication is effective?

• A. Decreased edema
• B. Increased abdominal girth
• C. Decreased appetite
• D. Increased protein in the urine

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a child with nephrotic syndrome, the presence of edema is due to fluid retention caused by protein loss in the urine. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, helps reduce inflammation and decrease the loss of protein in the urine, leading to a decrease in edema. Therefore, decreased edema is an indication that the prednisone treatment is effective in managing the nephrotic syndrome. Increased abdominal girth would indicate fluid retention and worsening of the condition. Decreased appetite is a nonspecific symptom and not a direct indicator of prednisone efficacy. Increased protein in the urine would indicate ongoing renal impairment and the ineffectiveness of the treatment.

2. Which menu choices for a child diagnosed with renal failure and experiencing hyperkalemia indicate the need for further instruction by the nurse?

• A. Carrots and green, leafy vegetables
• B. Spaghetti and meat sauce with breadsticks
• C. Hamburger on a bun and cherry gelatin
• D. Chips, cold cuts, and canned foods

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Carrots and green, leafy vegetables are high in potassium, which should be avoided in hyperkalemia. Therefore, this choice requires further instruction by the nurse to prevent exacerbating the child's condition.

3. A healthcare professional is planning care for an infant with hyperbilirubinemia receiving phototherapy. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional include in the plan?

• A. Dress the infant in light, breathable clothing.
• B. Turn and reposition the infant every 4 hours.
• C. Offer the infant frequent, small feedings.
• D. Avoid using lotions on the infant's skin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Turning and repositioning the infant every 4 hours is essential to prevent pressure sores and ensure uniform exposure to phototherapy. This practice helps prevent skin breakdown and ensures the effectiveness of the phototherapy in treating hyperbilirubinemia. Dressing the infant in light, breathable clothing (Choice A) is generally a good practice but not directly related to the effectiveness of phototherapy. Offering frequent, small feedings (Choice C) is important for infant nutrition but does not directly impact the phototherapy. Avoiding lotions on the infant's skin (Choice D) is recommended to prevent interference with the phototherapy but is not the most critical action to include in the care plan.

4. When preparing to insert an intravenous catheter for a 7-year-old child, which of the following actions should a healthcare professional take?

• A. Apply an anesthetic cream to the insertion site 1 hr before the procedure.
• B. Use a 16-gauge needle for the insertion.
• C. Insert the catheter into a vein of the child's dominant hand.
• D. Choose a site over the child's metacarpal veins.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Applying an anesthetic cream to the insertion site 1 hr before the procedure is crucial when inserting an intravenous catheter in a child to minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure. This practice is especially important in pediatric patients to ensure a more comfortable experience and improve cooperation during the insertion process. Choice B is incorrect as a 16-gauge needle is too large for a child, and a smaller gauge needle is typically used. Choice C is incorrect as the catheter should be inserted into a suitable vein, not specifically the dominant hand vein. Choice D is incorrect as metacarpal veins are usually avoided due to their small size and the potential for complications.

5. The 6-year-old child scheduled for an orchiopexy shyly asks the nurse, 'What are they going to do to me 'down there'? What is the nurse's best response?

• A. They are going to fix you up 'down there'.
• B. They will move your testicle from your abdomen to your scrotum.
• C. What do you think your doctor is going to do?
• D. You shouldn't worry. Your doctor knows exactly what to do.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should encourage the child to express his thoughts and feelings about the upcoming surgery. This approach helps the child feel heard and understood while providing an opportunity to address any misconceptions or fears. By asking the child what he thinks the doctor will do, the nurse engages the child in a conversation that can help alleviate anxiety and build trust. School-age children often have fears related to bodily harm, and open communication can help alleviate such concerns. Choices A and D do not encourage open communication or address the child's concerns directly. Choice B provides too much detail that may overwhelm the child and is not age-appropriate for a 6-year-old.

Similar Questions