Nursing Elites

1. The nurse needs to take the blood pressure of a small child. Of the cuffs available, one is too large and one is too small. The best nursing action is which?

• A. Use the small cuff
• B. Use the large cuff
• C. Use either cuff using the palpation method
• D. Wait to take the blood pressure until a proper cuff can be located

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is essential to use the correct cuff size for accurate blood pressure readings; if the proper size is not available, it's best to wait until it can be obtained.

2. What clinical manifestation(s) should the nurse expect to see as shock progresses in a child and becomes decompensated shock?

• A. Thirst
• B. Irritability
• C. Apprehension
• D. Confusion and somnolence

Correct answer: D

Rationale: As shock progresses and decompensation occurs, confusion and somnolence are indicative of reduced cerebral perfusion. Early signs include thirst and irritability, while confusion and altered consciousness appear as the condition worsens.

3. What is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children with cystic fibrosis?

• A. Respiratory infections
• B. Malnutrition
• C. Diabetes
• D. Liver disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Respiratory infections are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to thick mucus buildup in the lungs, which predisposes these children to recurrent respiratory infections. Malnutrition and diabetes are common comorbidities in cystic fibrosis but are not the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in affected children. Liver disease can occur in cystic fibrosis but is less common than respiratory complications.

4. Why is it difficult to assess a child’s dietary intake?

• A. No systematic assessment tool has been developed
• B. Biochemical analysis for assessing nutrition is expensive
• C. Families usually do not understand much about nutrition
• D. Recall of food consumption is frequently unreliable

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Recall of food intake, especially amounts eaten, is often unreliable. While systematic tools like the 24-hour recall and dietary history questionnaires exist, recall can still be challenging in accurately assessing a child's dietary intake. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because systematic assessment tools do exist, biochemical analysis is not the primary method for dietary assessment, and families' understanding of nutrition may vary but is not the main reason for the difficulty in assessing a child's dietary intake.

5. Why is knowledge of developmental theories useful for the nurse?

• A. Allows the nurse to know exactly what to do when caring for pediatric patients
• B. Is predictable and aids in controlling the child’s development
• C. Is a set of facts that each child follows in a prescribed method
• D. Provides a framework to guide the nurse in caring for the patient

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Understanding developmental theories helps nurses anticipate and plan appropriate care based on the child’s developmental stage. Choice A is incorrect because developmental theories provide a framework but do not dictate exact actions. Choice B is incorrect as developmental processes are not entirely predictable and are not meant to control a child’s development. Choice C is incorrect as developmental theories are not a strict set of facts that all children follow in a prescribed manner, but rather guidelines for understanding and supporting a child's growth and development.

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