Nursing Elites

1. What type of dehydration occurs when the electrolyte deficit exceeds the water deficit?

• A. Isotonic dehydration
• B. Hypotonic dehydration
• C. Hypertonic dehydration
• D. Hyperosmotic dehydration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hypotonic dehydration occurs when the loss of electrolytes exceeds the loss of water, leading to a decrease in plasma osmolarity. This often occurs when sodium loss is greater than water loss, as in diarrhea or vomiting.

2. Which of the following is the best indicator of a child's nutritional status?

• A. Weight
• B. Height
• C. Head circumference
• D. Mid-upper arm circumference

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Mid-upper arm circumference is a good indicator of muscle mass and fat stores, reflecting a child's nutritional status. It is particularly useful in assessing malnutrition, as it is less affected by fluid retention or dehydration compared to other anthropometric measurements. Weight can fluctuate due to factors like hydration status, making it less reliable as a sole indicator of nutritional status. Height reflects growth but may not directly indicate current nutritional status. Head circumference is more related to brain growth and development rather than overall nutritional status.

3. A major reason for the development of respiratory distress syndrome in the preterm infant is:

• A. Excessive surfactant
• B. Lack of surfactant
• C. Immature immune system
• D. Lack of body fat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lack of surfactant. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants is primarily due to a lack of surfactant, which is crucial for keeping the lungs inflated. Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli collapse, leading to breathing difficulties. Choice A, Excessive surfactant, is incorrect as RDS is caused by an insufficient amount of surfactant. Choice C, Immature immune system, and Choice D, Lack of body fat, are not directly related to the development of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

4. A toddler’s mother calls the nurse because she thinks her son has swallowed a button type of battery. He has no signs of respiratory distress. The nurse’s response should be based on which premise?

• A. An emergency laparotomy is very likely.
• B. The location needs to be confirmed by radiographic examination.
• C. Surgery will be necessary if the battery has not passed in the stool in 48 hours.
• D. Careful observation is essential because an ingested battery cannot be accurately detected.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Radiographic examination is essential to confirm the location of the battery, as it can cause significant damage, particularly if lodged in the esophagus. Immediate surgery may be required depending on its location and the potential for causing harm.

5. Which drug is usually the best choice for patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for a child in the immediate postoperative period?

• A. Codeine sulfate (Codeine)
• B. Morphine (Roxanol)
• C. Methadone (Dolophine)
• D. Meperidine (Demerol)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Morphine is the drug of choice for PCA in children because of its efficacy, safety profile, and rapid onset of action for pain management.

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