Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is describing clinical reasoning to a group of nursing students. Which is most descriptive of clinical reasoning?

• A. Purposeful and goal-directed
• B. A simple developmental process
• C. Based on deliberate and irrational thought
• D. Assists individuals in guessing what is most appropriate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clinical reasoning is purposeful and goal-directed, involving the use of critical thinking and decision-making skills to provide effective patient care.

2. What is the most appropriate action for a healthcare provider if a child presents with suspected meningitis?

• A. Administer antibiotics immediately
• B. Perform a lumbar puncture
• C. Isolate the child
• D. Obtain a complete blood count

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Isolating the child is a priority to prevent the spread of infection until meningitis is confirmed or ruled out. Meningitis, particularly bacterial, is highly contagious and can lead to outbreaks if not properly managed. Isolation and prompt treatment are critical in preventing serious complications. Administering antibiotics immediately without confirmation of the diagnosis can be harmful if the cause is viral or non-infectious. Performing a lumbar puncture is a diagnostic procedure that should be done by a healthcare provider but is not the initial action when suspecting meningitis. Obtaining a complete blood count may be part of the diagnostic workup but is not the most appropriate initial action in suspected meningitis.

3. What laboratory finding should the nurse expect in a child with an excess of water?

• A. Decreased hematocrit
• B. High serum osmolality
• C. High urine specific gravity
• D. Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Water excess typically leads to hemodilution, resulting in a decreased hematocrit. High serum osmolality and specific gravity would indicate dehydration, while elevated BUN could suggest renal impairment or dehydration, not fluid overload.

4. Which condition is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough in children?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Croup is the correct answer. Croup is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough due to inflammation and narrowing of the upper airways, particularly the larynx and trachea. It is most common in young children and can cause significant respiratory distress, especially at night. Treatment often includes humidified air and corticosteroids. Asthma (choice B) typically presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not a barking cough. Bronchitis (choice C) is characterized by productive cough with mucus, not a barking cough. Pneumonia (choice D) often presents with fever, productive cough, and chest pain, not a barking cough.

5. What condition is often associated with severe diarrhea?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Severe diarrhea can lead to a loss of bicarbonate, resulting in metabolic acidosis. This is a common complication of prolonged or severe diarrhea, especially in children.

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