what is the priority assessment for a nurse when caring for an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis nec
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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. What is the major cause of death for children older than 1 year in the United States?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death among children older than 1 year in the United States.

3. Which condition is most commonly associated with a 'sunset sign' in infants?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The 'sunset sign,' characterized by downward-driven eyes, is most commonly associated with hydrocephalus. This condition causes increased intracranial pressure, leading to the eyes appearing to be forced downward. Meningitis (choice B) typically presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, and a stiff neck, but not the 'sunset sign.' Cerebral palsy (choice C) is a group of disorders affecting movement and muscle coordination, not directly related to the 'sunset sign.' Encephalitis (choice D) is inflammation of the brain, which can cause symptoms like fever, headache, and confusion, but not the specific downward eye gaze seen in the 'sunset sign.'

4. What amount of fluid loss occurs with moderate dehydration?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Moderate dehydration is typically defined as a loss of 50 to 90 mL/kg of body weight. This amount reflects significant fluid loss that requires medical attention but is not yet severe.

5. In pediatric patients, what is the primary concern with untreated vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary concern with untreated vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in pediatric patients is chronic renal failure. Untreated VUR can lead to this complication due to recurrent urinary tract infections and kidney damage. While recurrent UTIs (Choice A) are a common consequence of VUR, the ultimate worry is the development of chronic renal failure. Hypertension (Choice C) may occur as a result of renal damage but is not the primary concern. Bladder dysfunction (Choice D) is not the most significant consequence of untreated VUR in terms of long-term outcomes compared to chronic renal failure.

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