what is the priority assessment for a nurse when caring for an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis nec
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ATI RN

ATI Nursing Care of Children

1. What is the priority assessment for a nurse when caring for an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Closely monitor abdominal distention. Monitoring the abdomen for signs of distention is crucial in the early detection of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). In NEC, the bowel wall is edematous and breaking down, leading to abdominal distention. Holding feedings is important in the management of NEC, as feedings may need to be stopped temporarily. Checking gastric residuals before feedings helps in assessing the infant's tolerance to feedings. Taking rectal temperatures is contraindicated in NEC as it can lead to the perforation of the bowel.

2. The nurse is teaching parents about diarrhea in young children. A parent asks the nurse what causes most cases of diarrhea in young children. How should the nurse respond?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rotavirus is the most common cause of diarrhea in young children, particularly those under the age of 2. Giardia, Shigella, and Salmonella can also cause diarrhea, but in the context of young children, Rotavirus is the primary pathogen responsible for diarrheal illnesses.

3. The clinic nurse is teaching parents about when to call the office immediately for a child with a fever. What should the nurse include in the teaching session? (Select all that apply.)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: High fever, especially in very young infants, or the presence of a stiff neck can indicate a serious infection requiring immediate attention. A fever lasting more than 3 days also warrants medical evaluation.

4. A 12-month-old child presents to the clinic for a well visit after missing several appointments. The child began her immunization schedule but has missed several follow-up appointments and doses of immunizations. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Children who began primary immunization at the recommended age but fail to receive all the doses do not need to begin the series again but should receive only the missed doses. The child may receive missed vaccinations on a catch-up schedule per CDC guidelines.

5. The nurse is seeing an adolescent and the parents in the clinic for the first time. Which should the nurse do first?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Introducing oneself is the first step in establishing a rapport and setting a professional tone for the interaction.

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