Nursing Elites

1. What is an important nursing responsibility when a dysrhythmia is suspected?

• A. order an immediate electrocardiogram
• B. count the radial pulse every 1 minute for five times
• C. count the apical pulse for 1 full minute, and compare the rate with the radial pulse rate
• D. have someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously with the apical pulse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.

2. A child with diabetes insipidus is being treated with vasopressin. The nurse would assess the child closely for signs and symptoms of which condition?

• A. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
• B. Thyroid storm
• C. Cushing syndrome
• D. Vitamin D toxicity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Vasopressin is a medication used to treat diabetes insipidus by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. However, an excessive dose of vasopressin can lead to water retention, causing SIADH, which is characterized by dilutional hyponatremia. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Thyroid storm is a severe form of hyperthyroidism characterized by increased metabolism and can lead to life-threatening complications. Cushing syndrome results from excess cortisol production and is characterized by weight gain, hypertension, and other features. Vitamin D toxicity occurs due to an overdose of vitamin D, leading to hypercalcemia and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness.

3. A 4-year-old fell from a third-story window and landed on her head. She is semiconscious with slow, irregular breathing and bleeding from her mouth. After performing a jaw-thrust maneuver with simultaneous stabilization of her head, what should you do next?

• A. Suction the oropharynx
• B. Insert a nasopharyngeal airway
• C. Initiate positive pressure ventilations
• D. Administer oxygen via mask

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient is experiencing airway compromise due to the fall and potential oropharyngeal obstruction from bleeding. Performing a jaw-thrust maneuver with head stabilization helps maintain the airway patency. The next step should be to suction the oropharynx to clear any blood or secretions, which can obstruct the airway and lead to aspiration. Inserting a nasopharyngeal airway may worsen bleeding or cause further injury to the patient's airway. Initiating positive pressure ventilations can be ineffective if the airway is not cleared first. Administering oxygen via mask is not the immediate priority; ensuring a patent airway by suctioning takes precedence.

4. A nurse is caring for an infant with intractable vomiting. For what complication is it most important for the nurse to assess?

• A. Acidosis
• B. Alkalosis
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an infant experiences intractable vomiting, it can lead to the loss of stomach acids, resulting in metabolic alkalosis. Alkalosis is characterized by elevated blood pH and can lead to serious complications. Assessing for alkalosis is essential in this scenario to monitor and manage the infant's condition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because in this context, the primary concern is the metabolic imbalance caused by excessive vomiting, leading to alkalosis rather than acidosis, hyperkalemia, or hypernatremia.

5. A 2-year-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. What is the primary goal of therapy during the acute phase?

• A. Preventing coronary artery aneurysms
• B. Reducing fever
• C. Improving cardiac function
• D. Preventing dehydration

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of therapy during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease is to prevent coronary artery aneurysms. Kawasaki disease is characterized by systemic vasculitis and the most serious complication is the development of coronary artery aneurysms. While reducing fever and improving cardiac function are important aspects of managing Kawasaki disease, the primary focus in the acute phase is to prevent the development of coronary artery aneurysms. Preventing dehydration is also essential but not the primary goal in managing Kawasaki disease.

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