Nursing Elites

1. The parents of a newborn with phenylketonuria (PKU) need help and support in adhering to specific dietary restrictions. They ask the nurse, “How long will our child have to be on this diet?” How should the nurse respond?

• A. “We are still not sure; you should discuss this with your health care provider.”
• B. “If your baby does well, foods containing protein can gradually be introduced.”
• C. “Your child needs to be on this diet at least through adolescence and into adulthood.”
• D. “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: “This is a lifelong problem, and it is recommended that dietary restrictions must be continued.” Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot process phenylalanine properly. The diet for PKU must be continued lifelong to prevent cognitive and developmental issues, as phenylalanine buildup can cause irreversible damage. Choice A is incorrect because the nurse should provide information about the lifelong nature of the dietary restrictions for PKU. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests reintroducing protein-containing foods, which is not recommended for individuals with PKU. Choice C is incorrect as it underestimates the duration of the necessary dietary restrictions for PKU.

2. A child with a fever is prescribed acetaminophen. What should the caregiver teach the parents about administering this medication?

• A. Administer the medication with food
• B. Measure the dose with a household spoon
• C. Measure the dose with a proper measuring device
• D. Administer the medication only when the child has a high fever

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to measure the dose with a proper measuring device. Using a household spoon can lead to inaccurate dosing, which can be dangerous. Administering the medication with food or only when the child has a high fever are not the essential instructions related to the safe and effective administration of acetaminophen.

3. A child has undergone a tonsillectomy, and a nurse is providing postoperative care. What is an important nursing intervention?

• A. Encouraging deep breathing exercises
• B. Encouraging the child to eat
• C. Administering antibiotics
• D. Applying ice to the throat

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Administering antibiotics is a crucial nursing intervention after a tonsillectomy because it helps prevent infections, which are a common postoperative complication. Encouraging deep breathing exercises (Choice A) is also important for promoting lung expansion and preventing respiratory complications. Encouraging the child to eat (Choice B) may not be appropriate immediately after a tonsillectomy due to the risk of throat irritation and discomfort. Applying ice to the throat (Choice D) is generally not recommended post-tonsillectomy as it may cause vasoconstriction and hinder the healing process.

4. After clearing the airway of a newborn who is not in distress, what is the most important action to take next?

• A. Administer free-flow oxygen
• B. Clamp and cut the cord
• C. Keep the newborn warm
• D. Obtain an APGAR score

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Keeping the newborn warm is crucial immediately after clearing the airway to prevent hypothermia, which can lead to complications in newborns. Administering free-flow oxygen is not necessary if the newborn is not in distress. Clamping and cutting the cord can be done after ensuring the newborn's warmth. Obtaining an APGAR score is important but can be done after ensuring the newborn is kept warm and stable.

5. The parents of an infant ask the nurse why their baby is scheduled to receive the intramuscular polio vaccine rather than the oral vaccine. What is the nurse’s best response?

• A. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the intramuscular vaccine because it is safer.
• B. The consensus is that either can be used, since both produce the same results and are equally safe.
• C. The oral vaccine is more expensive, so the intramuscular vaccine is preferred unless it is contraindicated.
• D. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the intramuscular vaccine unless the infant or a family member is immunocompromised.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the intramuscular polio vaccine because it has a better safety profile compared to the oral vaccine. Choice B is incorrect because the AAP specifically recommends the intramuscular vaccine over the oral vaccine. Choice C is incorrect as cost is not the primary reason for preferring the intramuscular vaccine. Choice D is incorrect as the recommendation is based on safety rather than the immunocompromised status of the infant or family members.

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