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. When working with a couple at risk of bearing a child with a genetic abnormality, what is most important for the nurse to incorporate into the plan of care?

• A. Gathering information from at least three generations
• B. Informing the couple of the need for a wide range of information
• C. Maintaining the confidentiality of the information
• D. Presenting the information in a nondirective manner

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When counseling a couple at risk of genetic abnormalities, it is crucial to present information in a nondirective manner. This approach allows the couple to make informed decisions without feeling pressured or influenced. Gathering information from at least three generations (Choice A) may be relevant for genetic counseling but is not the most critical aspect in this scenario. Informing the couple of the need for a wide range of information (Choice B) is too general and does not address the specific approach needed in this situation. Maintaining the confidentiality of the information (Choice C) is important but not the top priority compared to presenting information in a nondirective manner.

3. An infant who has had diarrhea for 3 days is admitted in a lethargic state and is breathing rapidly. The parent states that the baby has been ingesting formula, although not as much as usual, and cannot understand the sudden change. What explanation should the nurse give the parent?

• A. Cellular metabolism is unstable in young children.
• B. The proportion of water in the body is less than in adults.
• C. Renal function is immature in children until they reach school age.
• D. The extracellular fluid requirement per unit of body weight is greater than in adults.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Infants have a higher extracellular fluid requirement per unit of body weight, making them more susceptible to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances during illnesses such as diarrhea. Choice A is incorrect because cellular metabolism being unstable is not the primary explanation for the symptoms described. Choice B is incorrect as the proportion of water in the body alone does not fully explain the increased risk of dehydration in infants. Choice C is incorrect because while renal function is immature in children, it is not the most relevant factor in this scenario compared to the increased fluid requirements.

4. After a cardiac catheterization, what is the priority nursing care for a 3-year-old child?

• A. Encouraging early ambulation
• B. Monitoring the site for bleeding
• C. Restricting fluids until the blood pressure is stabilized
• D. Comparing the blood pressure of both lower extremities

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After a cardiac catheterization, the priority nursing care for a 3-year-old child is monitoring the site for bleeding. This is essential to promptly identify and address any signs of bleeding or hematoma formation, which are potential complications of the procedure. Encouraging early ambulation may be beneficial post-procedure but ensuring site integrity takes precedence. Restricting fluids until blood pressure stabilization is not a standard post-catheterization practice, as adequate hydration is crucial for recovery. Comparing the blood pressure of both lower extremities is not a priority immediate nursing action after a cardiac catheterization in a pediatric patient.

5. The school nurse is presenting a class to a group of students about common overuse disorders. Which disorder would the school nurse include?

• A. Dislocated radial head
• B. Transient synovitis of the hip
• C. Osgood-Schlatter disease
• D. Scoliosis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Osgood-Schlatter disease. This condition is a common overuse injury that affects the knee. Osgood-Schlatter disease typically occurs in children and adolescents who are involved in activities that require frequent running, jumping, and kicking. It is characterized by pain, swelling, and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity, where the patellar tendon inserts into the tibia. Choice A, Dislocated radial head, is not an overuse disorder but rather a form of elbow injury where the head of the radius bone is displaced from its normal position. Choice B, Transient synovitis of the hip, is a self-limiting condition that causes hip pain and limping in children. It is not typically considered an overuse disorder. Choice D, Scoliosis, is a condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. While it may be related to certain activities or postures, it is not primarily classified as an overuse disorder.

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