Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for an infant who was born 24 hr ago to a mother who received no prenatal care. The infant is a poor feeder but sucks avidly on his hands. Clinical manifestations also include hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, and a high-pitched shrill cry. What does the nurse consider as a possible diagnosis for this infant?

• A. Seizure disorder
• B. Narcotic withdrawal
• C. Placental insufficiency
• D. Meconium aspiration syndrome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this case, the infant's symptoms are consistent with narcotic withdrawal. Infants exposed to drugs in utero may display withdrawal symptoms starting around 12 to 24 hours post-birth. The presentation often includes hyperactive reflexes, tremors, sneezing, high-pitched shrill cry, poor feeding, and sucking avidly on hands. Signs such as loose stools, tachycardia, fever, projectile vomiting, sneezing, and generalized sweating are common. These symptoms are not indicative of a seizure disorder. Placental insufficiency typically leads to a small-for-gestational-age child, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Meconium aspiration syndrome primarily presents with respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in this case.

2. The clinic nurse is instructing parents about caring for a toddler with ascariasis (common roundworm). Which statement made by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. We will wash our hands often, especially after diaper changes
• B. We know that roundworm can be transmitted from person to person
• C. We will be sure to continue the nitazoxanide (Alinia) orally for 3 days
• D. We will bring a stool sample to the clinic for examination in 2 weeks

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Roundworm (ascariasis) is typically transmitted through ingestion of contaminated soil, not directly from person to person. This statement indicates a misunderstanding requiring clarification.

3. An adolescent with irritable bowel syndrome comes to see the school nurse. What information should the nurse share with the adolescent?

• A. A low-fiber diet is not always required.
• B. Stress management may be helpful.
• C. Milk products may or may not be a contributing factor.
• D. Pantoprazole (a proton pump inhibitor) is not a first-line treatment.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Stress management may be helpful. Stress is known to exacerbate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), making stress management an essential part of managing the condition. While dietary modifications can also be beneficial, a low-fiber diet is not universally recommended for IBS, as fiber can be important for some individuals. Milk products may or may not be contributing factors, as food triggers can vary among individuals. Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is not typically the first-line treatment for IBS, as it is more commonly used for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease.

4. When caring for a child with probable appendicitis, the nurse should be alert to recognize which sign or symptom as a manifestation of perforation?

• A. Anorexia
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Sudden relief from pain
• D. Decreased abdominal distention

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When caring for a child with probable appendicitis, sudden relief from pain is a critical sign that could indicate perforation of the appendix. Perforation results in the release of pressure and inflammation, leading to a temporary relief of pain. Anorexia (loss of appetite) and decreased abdominal distention are symptoms commonly associated with appendicitis itself, not perforation. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically a direct manifestation of appendicitis or its complications.

5. A school-age child with cancer is being prepared for a procedure. The child says, “I have had one of these before. They hurt.” The nurse bases her response on what knowledge related to pain in this patient?

• A. Often misrepresent experiencing pain
• B. Tolerate pain better than adults
• C. Become accustomed to painful procedures
• D. Commonly experience treatment-related moderate to severe pain when they have cancer

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Pain is frequently reported by children with cancer, with around 84% experiencing it. Most children report moderate to severe pain, with about half finding it highly distressing. There is no evidence to suggest that children often misrepresent their pain experiences. Pain tolerance is not solely based on age but is a complex phenomenon. Children do not become accustomed to painful procedures, as each experience of pain is unique.

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