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. What is the first-line treatment for a febrile seizure in a child?

• A. Antipyretics
• B. Anticonvulsants
• C. Cooling blankets
• D. IV fluids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Antipyretics. Febrile seizures in children are usually associated with fever. The first-line treatment aims to reduce fever, which can help prevent febrile seizures. Antipyretics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are commonly used for this purpose. Anticonvulsants, while used for treating seizures, are not typically the first-line treatment for febrile seizures as they are usually self-limited and resolve on their own. Cooling blankets can be used to lower body temperature in cases of hyperthermia but are not the primary treatment for febrile seizures. IV fluids may be administered in cases of dehydration due to fever or if the child cannot tolerate oral intake, but they are not the first-line treatment for febrile seizures.

3. 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.

4. Where would nonpathologic cyanosis normally be present in the newborn shortly after birth?

• A. Feet and hands
• B. Bridge of nose
• C. Circumoral area
• D. Mucous membranes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nonpathologic cyanosis in newborns shortly after birth is typically present in the feet and hands, known as acrocyanosis. This is a normal finding due to the immature peripheral circulation in newborns. Cyanosis of the bridge of the nose, circumoral area, and mucous membranes indicates generalized cyanosis, which suggests a potential underlying distress or major abnormality. Therefore, choice A is correct as it describes the expected location for nonpathologic cyanosis in newborns, while choices B, C, and D represent areas associated with abnormal cyanosis.

5. Which vaccine is contraindicated in a child with a history of severe egg allergy?

• A. MMR
• B. Varicella
• C. Influenza
• D. Hepatitis B

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Influenza. The influenza vaccine is produced using egg-based technology, so individuals with a severe egg allergy are at risk of an allergic reaction if vaccinated with the influenza vaccine. This is due to the potential presence of egg proteins in the vaccine. Choices A, B, and D are not contraindicated in children with severe egg allergy. The MMR and Varicella vaccines do not pose a risk for children with egg allergies, and the Hepatitis B vaccine is also safe for these individuals.

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