Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a 3-day-old girl with Down syndrome whose mother had no prenatal care. What is the priority nursing diagnosis?

• A. Imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotonia
• B. Deficient knowledge related to the presence of a genetic disorder
• C. Delayed growth and development related to a cognitive impairment
• D. Impaired physical mobility related to poor muscle tone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a 3-day-old girl with Down syndrome, whose mother had no prenatal care, is imbalanced nutrition, less than body requirements related to the effects of hypotonia. Newborns with Down syndrome often experience feeding difficulties due to hypotonia, which can lead to inadequate nutrition intake. Option B is incorrect because at this age, the infant is not capable of having knowledge deficits related to a genetic disorder. Option C is incorrect as delayed growth and development are not the immediate priority in this scenario. Option D is incorrect as impaired physical mobility is not typically a priority concern for a newborn with Down syndrome.

2. A parent brings a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome to the pediatric clinic for a physical and administration of immunizations. Which clinical finding should alert the nurse to perform a further assessment?

• A. Flat occiput
• B. Small, low-set ears
• C. Circumoral cyanosis
• D. Protruding furrowed tongue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Circumoral cyanosis should alert the nurse to perform further assessment in a 2-month-old infant with Down syndrome. This finding may indicate cardiac or respiratory issues, such as inadequate oxygenation. Small, low-set ears and a protruding furrowed tongue are common physical characteristics associated with Down syndrome and may not necessarily warrant immediate further assessment. A flat occiput is a normal variation in infant anatomy and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in this context.

3. What should be taught to the child and parents about using a peak flow meter for a child diagnosed with asthma?

• A. Use the device before taking medication
• B. Use the device during asthma attacks
• C. Record the best of three attempts
• D. Use the device after eating

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Record the best of three attempts.' This method provides an accurate measure of peak expiratory flow using a peak flow meter. By taking the best of three attempts, the child and parents can obtain a more reliable assessment of the child's lung function. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because using the device before taking medication, during asthma attacks, or after eating does not ensure an accurate measurement of peak flow, which is essential for managing asthma effectively. Monitoring peak flow regularly and accurately can help in adjusting asthma treatment plans and assessing response to medications.

4. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?

• A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
• B. The respiratory rates of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
• C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
• D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.

5. A 2-year-old child who was admitted to the hospital for further surgical repair of a clubfoot is standing in the crib, crying. The child refuses to be comforted and calls for the mother. As the nurse approaches the crib to provide morning care, the child screams louder. Knowing that this behavior is typical of the stage of protest, what is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Use comforting measures while holding the child.
• B. Fill the basin with water and proceed to bathe the child.
• C. Sit by the crib and bathe the child later when the anxiety decreases.
• D. Postpone the bath for a day because a child this upset should not be traumatized further.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During the stage of protest, children may exhibit distress and cling to familiar figures, resisting interactions with others. The most appropriate nursing intervention is to sit by the crib, offer comfort, and wait until the child's anxiety decreases before proceeding with bathing. This approach allows the child to feel supported and gradually transition to accepting care. Choice A is incorrect because forcing comfort may escalate the child's distress. Choice B is inappropriate as it disregards the child's emotional state and rushes into the bathing procedure. Choice D is not ideal as it suggests delaying care for an extended period, which may not address the child's immediate needs for comfort and hygiene.

Similar Questions