Nursing Elites

1. The practical nurse is caring for a child who has just returned from surgery for an appendectomy. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Encourage early ambulation.
• B. Apply warm compresses to the incision site.
• C. Monitor for signs of infection at the surgical site.
• D. Provide a high-fiber diet immediately post-op.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of infection at the surgical site is crucial after an appendectomy as it helps in early detection and treatment of any potential complications. This intervention is essential for ensuring the child's proper healing and recovery post-surgery. Encouraging early ambulation is generally beneficial post-operatively but may not be the priority immediately after an appendectomy. Applying warm compresses to the incision site may not be indicated as it can increase the risk of infection. Providing a high-fiber diet immediately post-op is not recommended as the digestive system needs time to recover from surgery.

2. What advice should be provided by the practical nurse to the mother of a school-age child with acute diarrhea and mild dehydration who is occasionally vomiting despite being given an oral rehydration solution (ORS)?

• A. Continue to give ORS frequently in small amounts.
• B. Alternate between ORS and carbonated beverages.
• C. Take the child to the hospital for intravenous fluids.
• D. Place the child NPO for the next eight to nine hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The practical nurse should advise the mother to continue providing the oral rehydration solution (ORS) frequently in small amounts. It is essential to continue ORS administration to prevent dehydration, even if the child is occasionally vomiting. Small, frequent amounts of ORS help maintain hydration levels in children with acute diarrhea and mild dehydration.

3. What action should be taken by the healthcare provider for a child who has ingested a corrosive product?

• A. Induce vomiting using Ipecac to remove the corrosive agent.
• B. Administer vinegar or lemon juice to neutralize the caustic agent.
• C. Give activated charcoal to decontaminate the stomach.
• D. Telephone the poison control center and follow their advice.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In cases of corrosive product ingestion, it is crucial to contact the poison control center for guidance. Inducing vomiting or attempting to neutralize the agent can lead to further harm. The poison control center professionals are trained to provide specific instructions tailored to the situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for the child. Therefore, the correct action is to call the poison control center for appropriate advice. Inducing vomiting can cause additional damage by re-exposing the esophagus and mouth to the corrosive substance. Administering vinegar or lemon juice is not recommended as it may worsen the situation by causing a chemical reaction. While activated charcoal can be useful in some cases of poisoning, it is not recommended for corrosive substances as it is ineffective in binding to them.

4. The nurse is assessing a 4-month-old infant who has just received routine immunizations. The mother reports that the baby has been fussy and has a low-grade fever since the immunizations. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. These are common side effects and should resolve within a few days
• B. Your baby may be having an allergic reaction to the immunizations
• C. You should bring your baby to the clinic immediately for evaluation
• D. You should give your baby aspirin to help with the fever

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct response by the nurse is to reassure the mother that fussiness and low-grade fever are common side effects of immunizations in infants and should resolve within a few days. It is essential to educate the mother about these expected reactions to alleviate her concerns. Choice B is incorrect because allergic reactions to immunizations usually present with more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling. Choice C is not warranted unless there are concerning symptoms present. Choice D is inappropriate as aspirin is contraindicated in infants due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

5. A child is recovering from an appendectomy. The parent asks when the child can resume normal activities. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. The child can resume normal activities as soon as they feel up to it
• B. The child should avoid strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks
• C. The child can resume normal activities after the stitches are removed
• D. The child should avoid all physical activities for the next month

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After an appendectomy, it is important for the child to avoid strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks to allow for proper healing. Resuming normal activities too soon can put unnecessary strain on the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

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