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. Why are neonates predisposed to problems with thermoregulation?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neonates have a large surface area relative to their weight, which makes them prone to heat loss to the environment, leading to thermoregulation issues. The underdeveloped kidney affecting urine concentration (Choice A) is unrelated to the thermal regulation process. While a flexed posture can help retain heat (Choice B), it does not outweigh the impact of the large body surface area in neonates. Although subcutaneous fat (Choice D) provides insulation, in neonates, the large body surface area is more significant in contributing to heat loss than the fat's insulating properties.

3. What clinical manifestation(s) is associated with calcium depletion (hypocalcemia)?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hypocalcemia can lead to neuromuscular irritability, causing symptoms such as muscle cramps, tetany, or seizures. Other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and weakness are less specific and can be related to various conditions.

4. The child is admitted to the hospital unit newly diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Which clinical manifestation does the nurse anticipate upon assessment?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: A white reflex. The 'white reflex' or leukocoria is a common sign of retinoblastoma. It occurs when the light reflects off the tumor in the eye, giving the pupil a white appearance instead of the normal red reflex. Blue-tinged sclerae (choice B) and yellow-tinged sclerae (choice D) are not typical manifestations of retinoblastoma. A red reflex (choice C) is the normal reflection seen in the eye when light is shone on it and is not associated with retinoblastoma.

5. A child with nephrotic syndrome is severely edematous. The primary healthcare provider has placed the child on bed rest. Which nursing intervention should be included in the plan of care?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Repositioning the child every two hours is essential to prevent pressure ulcers and promote circulation, especially when the child is on bed rest and experiencing severe edema. Monitoring blood pressure is important but does not need to be done every 30 minutes unless indicated. Limiting visitors and encouraging fluids are not directly related to managing edema and preventing complications from immobility. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate nursing intervention in this scenario.

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