Nursing Elites

1. Ongoing fluid losses can overwhelm the child’s ability to compensate, resulting in shock. What early clinical sign precedes shock?

• A. Tachycardia
• B. Slow respirations
• C. Warm, flushed skin
• D. Decreased blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Tachycardia is an early sign of shock as the body tries to maintain cardiac output in the face of declining circulatory volume. Blood pressure often remains normal until late in the progression, at which point decompensated shock is occurring.

2. When should the dressing change for a post-op pediatric patient that is expected to be very painful and frightening be performed?

• A. In the patient’s room
• B. In the treatment room
• C. After discharge when the patient is at home
• D. In the playroom

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'In the treatment room.' Performing painful procedures in the treatment room helps the child associate their own room with safety and comfort, not pain. Choice A is incorrect because performing the dressing change in the patient’s room may create a negative association with their safe space. Choice C is incorrect as it is important to ensure proper wound care and pain management before discharge. Choice D is incorrect as the playroom may not be equipped for a sterile dressing change.

3. What laboratory finding, in conjunction with the presenting symptoms, indicates minimal change nephrotic syndrome?

• A. Low specific gravity
• B. Decreased hemoglobin
• C. Normal platelet count
• D. Reduced serum albumin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Reduced serum albumin is a hallmark of minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) due to massive proteinuria. This results in hypoalbuminemia, which contributes to the edema characteristic of this condition.

4. The apnea monitor alarm sounds on a neonate for the third time during this shift. What is the priority action by the nurse?

• A. Provide tactile stimulation.
• B. Administer 100% oxygen.
• C. Investigate possible causes of a false alarm.
• D. Assess infant for color and presence of respirations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse when the apnea monitor alarm sounds on a neonate is to assess the infant for color and the presence of respirations. This initial assessment helps determine the infant's respiratory status and the need for immediate intervention. Providing tactile stimulation or administering oxygen should only be done after assessing the infant's respiratory status. Investigating possible causes of a false alarm comes after ensuring the infant's well-being through the initial assessment.

5. A major reason for the development of respiratory distress syndrome in the preterm infant is:

• A. Excessive surfactant
• B. Lack of surfactant
• C. Immature immune system
• D. Lack of body fat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lack of surfactant. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants is primarily due to a lack of surfactant, which is crucial for keeping the lungs inflated. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, leading to breathing difficulties. Choice A, Excessive surfactant, is incorrect as RDS is caused by an insufficient amount of surfactant. Choice C, Immature immune system, and Choice D, Lack of body fat, are not directly related to the development of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

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