Nursing Elites

1. The parents of a child with sickle cell anemia ask why their child did not have a sickle cell crisis until he was approximately 6 months old. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Your child probably had a crisis, and you were unaware of the symptoms.
• B. Are you sure your child has sickle cell anemia and not sickle cell trait?
• C. Affected children can be asymptomatic in early infancy because of high levels of fetal hemoglobin that inhibit sickling.
• D. Have you asked your doctor about this yet?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is present in high levels during early infancy, inhibiting sickling unlike adult hemoglobin (HbS). As the levels of HbF decrease and HbS increases, the risk of sickling and crises becomes more pronounced, typically after 6 months of age. Choice A is incorrect because it assumes the crisis went unnoticed, which is not supported by medical knowledge. Choice B is incorrect as it questions the child's diagnosis rather than explaining the phenomenon of delayed crises. Choice D is incorrect as it does not provide the parents with the necessary information regarding their query.

2. At which age can most infants sit steadily unsupported?

• A. 4 months
• B. 6 months
• C. 8 months
• D. 12 months

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Most infants can sit steadily without support by 8 months, indicating advanced gross motor skill development.

3. What is a common significant side effect of opioid administration?

• A. Euphoria
• B. Diuresis
• C. Constipation
• D. Allergic reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Constipation is one of the most common side effects of opioid administration due to the slowing down of gastrointestinal motility. Opioids affect the bowel movements, leading to constipation. Euphoria, while a possible effect, is less common than constipation. Diuresis is not a typical side effect of opioids; instead, urinary retention may occur. Allergic reactions are rare side effects of opioids, with symptoms such as rash, itching, or anaphylaxis.

4. A mother has just given birth to a newborn with a cleft lip. Sensing that something is wrong, she starts to cry and asks the nurse, "What is wrong with my baby?" What is the most appropriate nursing action?

• A. Encourage the mother to express her feelings
• B. Explain in simple language that the baby has a cleft lip
• C. Provide emotional support until the practitioner can talk to the mother
• D. Tell the mother a pediatrician will talk to her as soon as the baby is examined

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the mother to express her feelings allows her to process the situation and prepares her for receiving further information in a supportive environment.

5. The nurse is caring for a child with suspected ingestion of some type of poison. What action should the nurse take next after initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)?

• A. Empty the mouth of pills, plants, or other material.
• B. Question the victim and witness.
• C. Place the child in a side-lying position.
• D. Call poison control.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After ensuring the child's immediate survival needs are met with CPR, contacting poison control is critical to receive specific guidance on how to proceed with treatment. Other actions may be necessary depending on the situation but should follow contacting poison control.

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