Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is preparing to give acetaminophen (Tylenol) to a child who has a fever. What nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Retake the temperature in 15 minutes after giving the Tylenol.
• B. Place a warm blanket on the child so chilling does not occur.
• C. Check to be sure the Tylenol dose does not exceed 15 mg/kg.
• D. Use cold compresses instead of Tylenol to control the fever.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ensuring the dose does not exceed 15 mg/kg is critical to avoid overdose and potential liver damage. Retaking the temperature immediately or using cold compresses is not necessary, and placing a warm blanket could exacerbate the fever.

2. The nurse is caring for a non-English-speaking child and family. Which should the nurse consider when using an interpreter?

• A. Pose several questions at a time
• B. Use medical jargon when possible
• C. Communicate directly with family members when asking questions
• D. Carry on some communication in English with the interpreter about the family's needs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should communicate directly with the family members when asking questions, ensuring the interpreter translates accurately without adding or omitting information.

3. The nurse needs to start an intravenous (IV) line on an 8-year-old child to begin administering intravenous antibiotics. The child starts to cry and tells the nurse, "Do it later, okay?" What action should the nurse take?

• A. Postpone starting the IV until the next shift.
• B. Start the IV line and then allow for expression of feelings.
• C. Change the route of the antibiotics to PO.
• D. Postpone starting the IV line until the child is ready.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Starting the IV as planned while allowing the child to express feelings afterward helps build trust and ensures the timely administration of necessary antibiotics. Delaying the procedure or changing the route could compromise the child's treatment.

4. What is the first step in treating a child with suspected anaphylaxis?

• A. Administer oxygen
• B. Start an IV line
• C. Give epinephrine
• D. Monitor vital signs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Give epinephrine. Administering epinephrine is the first and most critical step in treating anaphylaxis. Epinephrine rapidly reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis, including airway swelling, hypotension, and shock. Delaying administration can lead to severe complications or death, making it essential in emergency treatment. Choice A, administering oxygen, might be necessary but should not delay the administration of epinephrine. Starting an IV line (Choice B) is important for further treatment but not the initial step. Monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is essential but comes after administering epinephrine to stabilize the child.

5. An infant with hydrocephalus is hospitalized for surgical placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Postoperative nursing care would include what?

• A. Monitor closely for signs of infection.
• B. Place the child with the operative side of the head up.
• C. Avoid pumping the shunt reservoir to maintain patency.
• D. Avoid maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

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