Nursing Elites

1. What is the most critical physiologic change required of newborns at birth?

• A. Transition from fetal to neonatal breathing
• B. Body temperature maintenance
• C. Stabilization of fluid and electrolytes
• D. Closure of fetal shunts in the heart

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transition from fetal to neonatal breathing. The onset of breathing is the most immediate and critical physiologic change required for the transition to extrauterine life. Factors that interfere with this normal transition increase fetal asphyxia, which is a condition of hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and acidosis. While body temperature maintenance, stabilization of fluid and electrolytes, and closure of fetal shunts in the heart are crucial changes in the transition to extrauterine life, breathing and the exchange of oxygen for carbon dioxide must take precedence as they are essential for newborn survival.

2. Which condition is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough in children?

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

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Croup is the correct answer. Croup is characterized by a 'seal-like' barking cough due to inflammation and narrowing of the upper airways, particularly the larynx and trachea. It is most common in young children and can cause significant respiratory distress, especially at night. Treatment often includes humidified air and corticosteroids. Asthma (choice B) typically presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not a barking cough. Bronchitis (choice C) is characterized by productive cough with mucus, not a barking cough. Pneumonia (choice D) often presents with fever, productive cough, and chest pain, not a barking cough.

3. What does the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend as the best form of infant nutrition?

• A. Exclusive breastfeeding until 1 year of age
• B. Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age
• C. Commercially prepared infant formula until 1 year of age
• D. Commercially prepared infant formula until 4 to 6 months of age

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The American Academy of Pediatrics advocates for exclusive breastfeeding until 1 year of age as the best form of infant nutrition. Breastfeeding for the first year of life provides optimal nutrition and benefits for the infant. Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age is not in line with the AAP's recommendation for a full year. While commercially prepared infant formula is an alternative if breastfeeding is not possible, it is not the preferred choice according to AAP guidelines. The recommendation for commercial infant formula until 1 year of age is not in line with the AAP's stance on the benefits of extended breastfeeding.

4. An infant with hydrocephalus is hospitalized for surgical placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Postoperative nursing care would include what?

• A. Monitor closely for signs of infection.
• B. Place the child with the operative side of the head up.
• C. Avoid pumping the shunt reservoir to maintain patency.
• D. Avoid maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative nursing care for an infant with hydrocephalus who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement includes monitoring closely for signs of infection, as infection is the greatest hazard in the postoperative period. Signs of cerebrospinal fluid infection to watch for include elevated temperature, poor feeding, vomiting, decreased responsiveness, and seizure activity. The child should be placed with the operative side of the head up to reduce pressure on the valve. The shunt reservoir should not be pumped to maintain patency, as this can disrupt its function. Maintaining a Trendelenburg position to decrease pressure on the shunt is contraindicated as it can lead to increased intracranial pressure and compromise the shunt's effectiveness.

5. Which clinical manifestations should the nurse anticipate when assessing a child for hypoglycemia?

• A. Lethargy
• B. Thirst
• C. Nausea and vomiting
• D. Shaky feeling and dizziness

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Shaky feeling and dizziness.' Hypoglycemia in children often presents with symptoms like shakiness, dizziness, sweating, hunger, and irritability. These symptoms occur because the brain and body are deprived of the glucose they need to function properly. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because lethargy, thirst, nausea, and vomiting are not typically primary manifestations of hypoglycemia in children.

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