Nursing Elites

1. What statement best describes Hirschsprung disease?

• A. The colon has an aganglionic segment.
• B. It results in frequent evacuation of solids, liquid, and gas.
• C. The neonate passes excessive amounts of meconium.
• D. It results in excessive peristaltic movements within the gastrointestinal tract.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hirschsprung disease is characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in a segment of the colon, leading to a lack of peristalsis and obstruction. The other options do not accurately describe this condition.

2. Melena, the passage of black, tarry stools, suggests bleeding from which source?

• A. The perianal or rectal area
• B. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract
• C. The lower GI tract
• D. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Melena indicates bleeding from the upper GI tract. The black, tarry appearance of the stool results from the partial digestion of blood as it passes through the intestines, typically originating from sources like the stomach or duodenum. Lower GI bleeding usually presents as bright red blood in the stool, originating from sources like the colon or rectum. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because melena specifically points to upper GI bleeding rather than issues in the perianal/rectal area, lower GI tract, or hemorrhoids/anal fissures.

3. The nurse is preparing to admit a 5-year-old child with hepatitis A. What clinical features of hepatitis A should the nurse recognize?

• A. The onset is rapid.
• B. Fever occurs early.
• C. All are applicable
• D. Nausea and vomiting are common.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Hepatitis A typically presents with a rapid onset, early fever, and nausea/vomiting. These are common clinical features seen in patients with hepatitis A. A pruritic rash is not commonly associated with hepatitis A, so choice C is incorrect. Choice A and B alone are not sufficient to cover all the clinical features of hepatitis A.

4. What is the most appropriate intervention for a child with suspected acute appendicitis?

• A. Administer antibiotics
• B. Apply heat to the abdomen
• C. Encourage oral fluids
• D. Prepare for surgery

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Prepare for surgery. Acute appendicitis is a surgical emergency that requires prompt removal of the appendix to prevent complications like rupture and peritonitis. Administering antibiotics (choice A) may be part of the treatment plan but should not delay surgical intervention. Applying heat to the abdomen (choice B) is not recommended as it can worsen the inflammation of the appendix. Encouraging oral fluids (choice C) is generally beneficial, but the priority in acute appendicitis is surgical intervention.

5. What findings on physical assessment of a neonate would indicate the need for further evaluation?

• A. Nystagmus
• B. Epstein pearls
• C. Low-set ears
• D. Positive Babinski reflex

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Low-set ears in a neonate suggest major abnormalities and should prompt further evaluation. The correct alignment of the top of the pinnae of the ear with the outer canthus of the eye is crucial. Nystagmus, an involuntary eye movement, is common in newborns and often resolves on its own. Epstein pearls, small cysts on the hard palate, are insignificant and disappear over time. A positive Babinski reflex is normal in infants up to 1 year of age. Therefore, the presence of low-set ears is the most concerning finding that requires immediate attention.

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