Nursing Elites

1. The healthcare provider is assessing an infant with pyloric stenosis. Which pathophysiological mechanism is the most likely consequence of this infant's clinical picture?

• A. Metabolic alkalosis.
• B. Respiratory acidosis.
• C. Metabolic acidosis.
• D. Respiratory alkalosis.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pyloric stenosis leads to obstruction at the outlet of the stomach, causing frequent vomiting and loss of stomach acids. This results in a loss of hydrochloric acid and hydrogen ions, leading to metabolic alkalosis due to an increase in serum bicarbonate levels. Therefore, the correct answer is metabolic alkalosis. Choice B, respiratory acidosis, is incorrect as it is not typically associated with pyloric stenosis. Choice C, metabolic acidosis, is incorrect because the loss of stomach acids in pyloric stenosis leads to metabolic alkalosis, not acidosis. Choice D, respiratory alkalosis, is also incorrect as it is not the usual consequence of pyloric stenosis.

2. A school-age child with a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus is brought to the emergency department with confusion and rapid breathing. The practical nurse (PN) suspects diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which initial intervention should the PN anticipate?

• A. Administer subcutaneous insulin.
• B. Give oral glucose tablets.
• C. Start intravenous fluids.
• D. Administer oxygen therapy.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Intravenous fluids are typically the initial intervention in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) to treat dehydration and stabilize the patient's condition. The fluid replacement helps correct electrolyte imbalances and improve perfusion, which are crucial in managing DKA. Insulin therapy follows after fluid resuscitation to address the underlying cause of DKA, which is the lack of insulin leading to increased ketone production. Administering subcutaneous insulin (Choice A) would be premature without first addressing the dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Giving oral glucose tablets (Choice B) is contraindicated in DKA as the patient already has high blood glucose levels. Administering oxygen therapy (Choice D) may be necessary based on the patient's condition, but addressing dehydration with intravenous fluids is the priority intervention in DKA.

3. A 15-month-old child is brought to the clinic for a routine checkup. The nurse notes that the child is not walking independently yet. What should the nurse do next?

• A. Refer the child for a developmental assessment
• B. Encourage the parents to start physical therapy
• C. Reassure the parents that some children walk later than others
• D. Discuss the importance of early intervention services

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to reassure the parents that some children walk later than others. It is essential to understand that children reach developmental milestones at different ages. Walking independently can occur later in some children, and it is normal. Referring the child for a developmental assessment (Choice A) may cause unnecessary concern at this stage. Encouraging physical therapy (Choice B) or discussing early intervention services (Choice D) may not be warranted unless there are specific concerns identified during the checkup.

4. A mother brings her 3-month-old infant to the clinic because the baby does not sleep through the night. Which finding is most significant in planning care for this family?

• A. The mother is a single parent and lives with her parents
• B. The mother states the baby is irritable during feedings
• C. The infant’s formula has been changed twice
• D. The diaper area shows severe skin breakdown

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Severe skin breakdown in the diaper area is a significant finding indicating a potential health issue that needs immediate attention. It may be a sign of a skin condition, such as a diaper rash, which can cause discomfort and pain for the infant. Addressing this concern promptly is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure the baby's well-being. The other choices may also be important in assessing the overall situation of the family, but in terms of immediate care for the infant, the severe skin breakdown takes priority.

5. When reinforcing teaching with the parents of a 7-year-old child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) about the child's medication, which statement by the parents indicates an understanding of the medication's side effects?

• A. We should monitor our child's growth and appetite regularly.
• B. The medication may cause drowsiness, so we will give it at bedtime.
• C. We need to give the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
• D. The medication can cause increased urination, so fluid intake should be limited.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'We should monitor our child's growth and appetite regularly.' Correct monitoring of the child's growth and appetite is crucial when a child is on ADHD medications, especially stimulants, as these medications can have side effects related to growth and appetite. Monitoring these parameters regularly helps in assessing the medication's impact and making any necessary adjustments. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B talks about drowsiness, C mentions avoiding stomach upset, and D refers to increased urination and limiting fluid intake. While these are potential side effects of medications, they do not directly address the importance of monitoring growth and appetite, which is crucial in children on ADHD medications.

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