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. An infant is born with a gastroschisis. Care preoperatively should include which priority intervention?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct priority intervention for an infant with gastroschisis is to cover the exposed abdominal contents with a sterile bowel bag. This action helps protect the intestines from injury, contamination, and dehydration before surgical repair. Choice A, placing the infant in the prone position, is not appropriate as it does not address the immediate need to protect the exposed intestines. Choice B, sterile water feedings, and Choice C, monitoring serum laboratory electrolytes, are not the priority interventions for this condition. Sterile water feedings may not provide the necessary protection for the exposed intestines, and monitoring electrolytes, while important, is secondary to the immediate need for protection and hydration of the exposed abdominal contents.

3. An important intervention for infants with developmental disabilities is to:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Stress the importance of early infant stimulation and intervention programs. Early intervention programs are essential for infants with developmental disabilities as they can significantly impact the child's development and future outcomes. These programs provide necessary support and therapies to enhance the child's skills and abilities. Choice A is incorrect because it is crucial to provide hope and support to parents, emphasizing the potential for development and progress. Choice C is inappropriate and unethical as the first line of intervention. Institutionalization should only be considered in extreme cases where other options have been exhausted. Choice D is not the most crucial intervention at this stage. While reevaluation may be necessary, early intervention and support should be prioritized to maximize the child's developmental potential.

4. The nurse is preparing a child for possible alopecia from chemotherapy. What information should the nurse give regarding alopecia?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary, and when it regrows, it may have a different color or texture. Sun exposure should be minimized, as the scalp may be more sensitive. Wearing hats and scarves can provide comfort and protection, but there is no preference over wearing a wig. Choice A is incorrect because hair regrowth after chemotherapy varies from person to person and usually occurs sooner than two years. Choice C is incorrect as sun exposure should be minimized to protect the sensitive scalp. Choice D is incorrect as the preference between wearing hats, scarves, or a wig is subjective and depends on the individual's comfort and preferences.

5. What physiologic state(s) produces the clinical manifestations of nervous system stimulation and excitement, such as overexcitability, nervousness, and tetany?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Both metabolic and respiratory alkalosis can cause overexcitability and nervous system stimulation due to a decrease in ionized calcium levels, which can cause symptoms such as tetany and paresthesias. Acidosis typically has the opposite effect, leading to depression of the nervous system.

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