Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is assessing a 3-day-old breastfed newborn who weighed 3400 g (7 pounds, 8 oz) at birth. The infant’s mother is now concerned because the infant weighs 3147 g (6 pounds, 15 oz). The most appropriate nursing intervention is what?

• A. Recommend supplemental feedings of formula.
• B. Explain that this weight loss is within normal limits.
• C. Assess the child further to determine the cause of excessive weight loss.
• D. Encourage the mother to express breast milk for bottle-feeding the infant.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A neonate normally loses about 10% of the birth weight by age 3 to 4 days. The birth weight is usually regained by the 10th day of life. In this case, the weight loss from 3400 g to 3147 g is within the expected range. Therefore, the most appropriate action is to explain to the mother that this weight loss is within normal limits. Choice A is incorrect because supplemental feedings of formula are not indicated for this expected weight loss in a breastfed newborn. Choice C is incorrect as there is no evidence to suggest excessive weight loss at this point. Choice D is unnecessary at this stage and may not align with the current situation of normal weight loss post-birth.

2. An infant with short bowel syndrome is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The practitioner has added continuous enteral feedings through a gastrostomy tube. The nurse recognizes this as important for which reason?

• A. Wean the infant from TPN gradually
• B. Stimulate adaptation of the small intestine
• C. Provide additional nutrients that cannot be included in the TPN
• D. Offer parents encouragement that the child is close to discharge

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Continuous enteral feedings help stimulate the small intestine's adaptation in short bowel syndrome, promoting better nutrient absorption and eventually reducing reliance on TPN. This approach is crucial for long-term management and improving the child's prognosis. Choice A is incorrect because weaning off TPN typically occurs gradually over time, not the next day. Choice C is incorrect because TPN can be adjusted to provide necessary nutrients, and enteral feedings are mainly used to stimulate intestinal function. Choice D is incorrect as the addition of enteral feedings does not necessarily indicate imminent discharge; it primarily focuses on enhancing intestinal adaptation and reducing reliance on TPN.

3. Which condition is characterized by a harsh, barking cough in children?

• A. Asthma
• B. Bronchiolitis
• C. Croup
• D. Pneumonia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Croup is the correct answer. It is characterized by a harsh, barking cough due to inflammation of the upper airways, specifically the larynx and trachea. Asthma (Choice A) often presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not a barking cough. Bronchiolitis (Choice B) typically causes wheezing and respiratory distress in infants. Pneumonia (Choice D) manifests with symptoms such as fever, productive cough, and chest pain, but not usually a barking cough.

4. A 6-month-old infant with Hirschsprung disease is scheduled for a temporary colostomy. What should postoperative teaching to the parents include?

• A. Dilating the stoma
• B. Assessing bowel function
• C. Limitation of physical activities
• D. Measures to prevent prolapse of the rectum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Postoperative teaching should focus on assessing bowel function to ensure the colostomy is functioning properly. This includes monitoring stool output, color, consistency, and signs of infection or blockage. Choice A, dilating the stoma, is not recommended without healthcare provider guidance, as it can lead to complications. Choice C, limitation of physical activities, may not be as crucial immediately after colostomy creation. Choice D, measures to prevent prolapse of the rectum, is more relevant for conditions like rectal prolapse and not specifically for a colostomy.

5. What statement is descriptive of renal transplantation in children?

• A. It is an acceptable means of treatment after age 10 years.
• B. Children can receive kidneys only from other children.
• C. It is the preferred means of renal replacement therapy in children.
• D. The decision for transplantation is difficult because a relatively normal lifestyle is not possible.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Renal transplantation is the preferred method of treatment for children with end-stage renal disease, as it offers the best chance for a normal lifestyle compared to long-term dialysis. Transplantation can be performed at any age, and kidneys can come from adult donors as well.

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