what is the most appropriate action for a nurse if a child presents with suspected meningitis
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B

1. What is the most appropriate action for a healthcare provider if a child presents with suspected meningitis?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Isolating the child is a priority to prevent the spread of infection until meningitis is confirmed or ruled out. Meningitis, particularly bacterial, is highly contagious and can lead to outbreaks if not properly managed. Isolation and prompt treatment are critical in preventing serious complications. Administering antibiotics immediately without confirmation of the diagnosis can be harmful if the cause is viral or non-infectious. Performing a lumbar puncture is a diagnostic procedure that should be done by a healthcare provider but is not the initial action when suspecting meningitis. Obtaining a complete blood count may be part of the diagnostic workup but is not the most appropriate initial action in suspected meningitis.

2. In addition to injuries, what are the leading causes of death in adolescents ages 15 to 19 years?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Suicide and homicide are significant causes of death in adolescents, highlighting the need for mental health and violence prevention programs.

3. The nurse is teaching the mother of a 9-month-old infant about administering liquid iron preparation. Which information should be included in the teaching?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Iron supplements can cause stools to turn black, which is a normal and harmless side effect. Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, although it can be given with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs. Vitamin C, not D, enhances iron absorption. Choice B is incorrect because Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, not Vitamin D. Choice C is incorrect as there is no need to mix liquid iron with saliva before swallowing. Choice D is incorrect because iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach.

4. The parents of a newborn with an umbilical hernia ask about treatment options. The nurse's response should be based on which knowledge?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Most umbilical hernias in newborns resolve on their own by 3 to 5 years of age without the need for surgical intervention, unless complications arise. Surgery is not typically recommended for umbilical hernias in newborns due to the high rate of spontaneous resolution. Aggressive treatment is not necessary as umbilical hernias are typically benign and not associated with high mortality. Taping the abdomen is not recommended as it can cause skin irritation and does not speed up the resolution of the hernia.

5. The nurse has just started assessing a young child who is febrile and appears ill. There is hyperextension of the child's head (opisthotonos) with pain on flexion. Which is the most appropriate action?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Opisthotonos with pain on flexion is a sign of possible meningitis or other serious neurological conditions, requiring immediate medical evaluation.

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