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. What behavior does a toddler subjected to prolonged hospitalization with limited parental visits typically exhibit?

• A. Engage in cheerful interactions with staff members
• B. Display indications of sadness throughout the day
• C. Experience excessive crying when parents are not present
• D. Show limited emotional response to the environment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Toddlers subjected to prolonged hospitalization with limited parental visits usually exhibit a limited emotional response to the environment. This behavior can be a coping mechanism for the child in dealing with the separation from their primary caregivers. The child might not show the same level of engagement or emotional expression as they would if their parents were present. Choices A, B, and C are less likely because the child's emotional response is typically more subdued and withdrawn in such circumstances, rather than being cheerful, consistently sad, or excessively crying.

3. A 7-year-old child has an altered mental status, high fever, and a generalized rash. You perform your assessment and initiate oxygen therapy. En route to the hospital, you should be most alert for:

• A. vomiting
• B. seizures
• C. combativeness
• D. respiratory distress

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a pediatric patient presenting with altered mental status, high fever, and a generalized rash, seizures are a significant concern. Febrile seizures can occur in children with high fevers and may lead to further complications. It is crucial to monitor for seizures and be prepared to manage them promptly. Vomiting, combativeness, and respiratory distress are also important considerations in pediatric patients; however, given the clinical presentation described, seizures take priority as they are a common complication in this scenario.

4. A child with a diagnosis of celiac disease is admitted to the hospital. What dietary restriction should the nurse teach the parents?

• A. Avoid dairy products
• B. Avoid gluten
• C. Avoid high-fat foods
• D. Avoid foods high in sugar

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Avoid gluten.' Children with celiac disease must follow a gluten-free diet to prevent symptoms and intestinal damage. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which triggers an immune response in individuals with celiac disease. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while some individuals with celiac disease may also have lactose intolerance or may need to manage fat or sugar intake for overall health, the primary dietary restriction for celiac disease is avoiding gluten to maintain gastrointestinal health.

5. A child with a cardiac malformation associated with left-to-right shunting is being cared for by a nurse. What does the nurse consider to be the major characteristic of this type of congenital disorder?

• A. Elevated hematocrit
• B. Severe growth retardation
• C. Clubbing of the fingers and toes
• D. Increased blood flow to the lungs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The major characteristic of a cardiac malformation associated with left-to-right shunting is increased blood flow to the lungs. This increased flow can lead to pulmonary hypertension and heart failure if left untreated. Elevated hematocrit (Choice A) is not a typical characteristic of this condition. Severe growth retardation (Choice B) is not directly associated with left-to-right shunting. Clubbing of the fingers and toes (Choice C) is more commonly seen in conditions involving chronic hypoxia.

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