Nursing Elites

1. The nurse assesses a patient suspected of having meningitis. Which of the following is a common clinical manifestation of this condition?

• A. A high WBC count and decreased level of consciousness
• B. A high WBC count and manic activity
• C. A low WBC count and manic activity
• D. A low WBC count and decreased level of consciousness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A high WBC count and decreased level of consciousness.' Meningitis is often caused by an infectious organism, leading to an increase in Intracranial Pressure (ICP), which can result in decreased level of consciousness. While meningitis can trigger an inflammatory response, it typically presents with an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count rather than a low WBC count. Manic activity is not a common clinical manifestation of meningitis; instead, patients may exhibit altered mental status, confusion, or lethargy.

2. A nursing student caring for a 6-month-old infant is asked to collect a sample for urinalysis from the infant. How should the student collect the specimen?

• A. Catheterizing the infant using the smallest available Foley catheter
• B. Attaching a urinary collection device to the infant's perineum for collection
• C. Obtaining the specimen from the diaper by squeezing the diaper after the infant voids
• D. Noting the time of the next expected voiding and then preparing a specimen cup for the urine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct method for collecting a urine sample from an infant for urinalysis is by attaching a urinary collection device to the infant's perineum. This device is a plastic bag with an adhesive opening that allows it to be secured to the perineum to collect urine. Catheterizing the infant with a Foley catheter should not be done unless specifically prescribed due to the risk of infection. Obtaining the specimen from the diaper by squeezing it after the infant voids may not provide an accurate sample for urinalysis. Trying to predict the time of the next voiding to prepare a specimen cup is not practical or reliable in ensuring an appropriate sample for urinalysis.

3. To prevent a Valsalva maneuver in a client recovering from an acute myocardial infarction, the nurse would:

• A. Assist the client in using the bedside commode.
• B. Administer stool softeners daily as prescribed.
• C. Administer antidysrhythmics prn as ordered.
• D. Maintain the client on strict bed rest.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering stool softeners daily is crucial to prevent straining during defecation, which can lead to the Valsalva maneuver. Straining can increase intrathoracic pressure, decrease venous return to the heart, and reduce cardiac output, potentially worsening the client's condition. If constipation occurs, the use of laxatives may be necessary to avoid straining. Administering antidysrhythmics on an as-needed basis is not indicated for preventing the Valsalva maneuver; they are used to manage dysrhythmias. Strict bed rest is not necessary and may lead to complications such as deconditioning, DVT, and respiratory issues in the absence of specific medical indications.

4. A nurse in the emergency department is observing a 4-year-old child for signs of increased intracranial pressure after a fall from a bicycle, resulting in head trauma. Which of the following signs or symptoms would be cause for concern?

• A. Bulging anterior fontanel
• B. Repeated vomiting
• C. Signs of sleepiness at 10 PM
• D. Inability to read short words from a distance of 18 inches

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Increased intracranial pressure after head trauma can lead to serious complications. Repeated vomiting is a concerning sign as it can indicate stimulation of the vomiting center within the brainstem due to increased pressure. This can be an early indicator of raised intracranial pressure and the need for urgent medical intervention. Bulging anterior fontanel may not be immediately apparent in a 4-year-old child and is more common in infants. Signs of sleepiness at a particular time of day are not specific to increased intracranial pressure. Inability to read short words from a distance of 18 inches may indicate vision problems but is not directly related to intracranial pressure.

5. The nurse is caring for a 7-year-old child with glomerulonephritis and is preparing to discuss the plan of care with the parents. In anticipating this encounter, the nurse recognizes that which is a common reaction of parents to the diagnosis of glomerulonephritis?

• A. Fear of the complicated treatment regimen
• B. Anger at the child for requiring hospitalization
• C. Guilt that they did not seek treatment more quickly
• D. Depression that the child may not be able to play sports

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Guilt is a common reaction of parents when their child is diagnosed with glomerulonephritis. Parents often blame themselves for not responding promptly to the child's initial symptoms or feel guilty for not seeking treatment sooner, thinking they could have prevented the development of glomerular damage. While fear of a complicated treatment regimen, anger at the child for hospitalization, and depression about the child not playing sports may be valid concerns, they are generally not as commonly observed as the feeling of guilt among parents in this situation.

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