Nursing Elites

1. What is the best indicator of fluid balance in a pediatric patient?

• A. Blood pressure
• B. Heart rate
• C. Weight
• D. Urine output

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Weight is the most accurate indicator of fluid balance in pediatric patients. Changes in weight reflect shifts in body fluid levels more directly compared to other parameters. Blood pressure and heart rate may be affected by various factors other than fluid balance. While urine output is important in assessing renal function, it may not provide a comprehensive picture of overall fluid balance in pediatric patients.

2. What findings would the nurse consider normal in assessing the anterior fontanel of a neonate?

• A. Closed anterior fontanel
• B. Sunken anterior fontanel
• C. Bulging anterior fontanel
• D. Pulsating anterior fontanel

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Pulsating anterior fontanel. The fontanel should feel flat, firm, and well demarcated. Pulsations are frequently visible at the anterior fontanel, which is a normal finding in a neonate. A closed anterior fontanel, as mentioned, is a potential sign of a major abnormality. A sunken or bulging fontanel (when the infant is quiet) may be indicative of distress or a major abnormality. Therefore, options A, B, and C are considered abnormal findings when assessing the anterior fontanel of a neonate.

3. Which of the following is a hallmark sign of intussusception in children?

• A. Bilious vomiting
• B. "Currant jelly" stools
• C. Abdominal distention
• D. Constipation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: "Currant jelly" stools, consisting of mucus and blood, are characteristic of intussusception in children. It occurs due to the telescoping of a segment of the intestine into an adjacent segment, leading to obstruction and subsequent mucosal ischemia, causing the passage of bloody mucus in the stool. Bilious vomiting can be seen in other conditions like bowel obstruction, abdominal distention can be present but is not as specific, and constipation is less likely in the presentation of intussusception.

4. Which pediatric condition is most likely to present with a "whooping" sound during coughing?

• A. Croup
• B. Bronchitis
• C. Pertussis
• D. Asthma

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pertussis. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is characterized by a "whooping" sound during coughing episodes. This distinctive sound is due to the rapid intake of air after a series of coughs. Choice A, Croup, typically presents with a barking cough and stridor. Choice B, Bronchitis, is characterized by a productive cough with mucus. Choice D, Asthma, usually presents with wheezing and shortness of breath.

5. The nurse is planning to counsel family members as a group to assess the family's group dynamics. Which theoretical family model is the nurse using as a framework?

• A. Feminist theory
• B. Family stress theory
• C. Family systems theory
• D. Developmental theory

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Family systems theory views the family as an interconnected system where changes in one member affect the entire family, making it ideal for assessing group dynamics.

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