Nursing Elites

1. What finding would the nurse expect to assess in a child with hypothyroidism?

• A. Nervousness
• B. Heat intolerance
• C. Smooth velvety skin
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a child with hypothyroidism, weight gain is a typical finding due to the slowed metabolism associated with the condition. This occurs because thyroid hormone levels are insufficient to regulate metabolism effectively. Choices A, B, and C are not typically associated with hypothyroidism. Nervousness is more commonly seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism, where there is an excess of thyroid hormones. Heat intolerance may be seen in hyperthyroidism as well, where the body's metabolism is increased. Smooth velvety skin is a characteristic finding in conditions like Cushing's syndrome, where there is excess cortisol production.

2. During a physical examination of an infant with Down syndrome, what anomaly should the healthcare provider assess the child for?

• A. Bulging fontanels
• B. Stiff lower extremities
• C. Abnormal heart sounds
• D. Unusual pupillary reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Infants with Down syndrome are at increased risk of congenital heart defects. Therefore, assessing for abnormal heart sounds is crucial during the physical examination. Bulging fontanels are not typically associated with Down syndrome and may indicate increased intracranial pressure. Stiff lower extremities are not a common finding in Down syndrome and may suggest other musculoskeletal issues. Unusual pupillary reactions are not typically linked to Down syndrome and may be indicative of neurological problems instead.

3. When explaining a viral disease that begins with malaise and a highly pruritic rash starting on the abdomen, spreading to the face and proximal extremities, and potentially leading to severe complications, which childhood disease is a nurse discussing with members of a grammar school’s Parent-Teachers Association?

• A. Rubella
• B. Rubeola
• C. Chickenpox
• D. Scarlet fever

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Chickenpox (varicella). This viral disease typically starts with malaise and a highly pruritic rash that begins on the abdomen and then spreads to the face and proximal extremities. Chickenpox can result in serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Rubella (German measles) presents with a milder rash and is less pruritic than chickenpox. Rubeola (measles) is characterized by a rash that spreads from the head to the trunk. Scarlet fever is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria and is not a viral illness.

4. What is an early sign of congestive heart failure that the nurse should recognize?

• A. tachypnea
• B. bradycardia
• C. inability to sweat
• D. increased urinary output

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Tachypnea is an early sign of congestive heart failure that nurses should recognize. Tachypnea refers to rapid breathing, which can be an indication of the body's attempt to compensate for decreased cardiac output in congestive heart failure. Bradycardia (choice B) is a slow heart rate and is not typically associated with congestive heart failure. Inability to sweat (choice C) and increased urinary output (choice D) are not specific early signs of congestive heart failure and are not typically recognized as such.

5. A child with a diagnosis of diabetes insipidus is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering insulin
• B. Monitoring fluid balance
• C. Administering diuretics
• D. Monitoring vital signs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring fluid balance. In a child with diabetes insipidus, the primary concern is excessive urination and fluid loss, which can lead to dehydration. Monitoring fluid balance is crucial to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance. Administering insulin (Choice A) is not indicated in diabetes insipidus, as this condition is not related to insulin deficiency. Administering diuretics (Choice C) should be avoided as it can exacerbate fluid loss in a child already at risk for dehydration. While monitoring vital signs (Choice D) is important, the priority intervention in this situation is monitoring fluid balance to prevent complications associated with dehydration.

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