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

Nursing Elites

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. When planning care for a child with a urinary tract infection, the nurse should give priority to which treatment measure?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering antibiotics on schedule is crucial in treating a UTI effectively and preventing complications. Antibiotics help to eliminate the infection-causing bacteria from the urinary tract. While maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration are important aspects of care, the priority in a UTI is to target the infection with antibiotics. Preventing enuresis (bedwetting) is not directly related to the treatment of the infection. Fluid restriction is not recommended in the management of a UTI; in fact, encouraging adequate fluid intake helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.

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 school-age child is admitted to the pediatric unit with a vaso-occlusive crisis. Which of these should be included in the nursing plan of care?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell anemia require a comprehensive approach that includes adequate hydration to reduce blood viscosity, oxygenation to prevent further sickling of red blood cells, and aggressive pain management. This approach helps improve tissue perfusion and manage pain effectively. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Correction of alkalosis is not a priority in vaso-occlusive crisis management. Administration of heparin is not indicated as it can increase the risk of bleeding in sickle cell patients. Factor VIII replacement is not relevant to sickle cell anemia as it is a treatment for hemophilia, not sickle cell disease.

5. What is the earliest age at which a satisfactory radial pulse can be taken in children?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A satisfactory radial pulse can typically be taken starting at around 3 years of age, as younger children often have pulses that are too fast and irregular for accurate measurement.

Similar Questions

What type of dehydration occurs when the electrolyte deficit exceeds the water deficit?
The nurse observes that a newborn is having problems after birth. What should indicate a tracheoesophageal fistula?
The nurse is caring for a patient from a culture unfamiliar to the local area. The best way for a culturally competent nurse to interact with the family is to:
A new mom is ready to introduce solid foods to her infant. Which food would you recommend starting with?
How is family systems theory best described?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses