Nursing Elites

1. Which actions by the nurse demonstrate clinical reasoning? (Select all that apply.)

• A. All below
• B. Considering alternative actions
• C. Using formal and informal thinking to gather data
• D. Giving deliberate thought to a patient's problem

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clinical reasoning involves deliberate and thoughtful decision-making, considering alternatives, and using both formal and informal data gathering methods to provide optimum care.

2. What signs or symptoms are most commonly associated with the prodromal phase of acute viral hepatitis?

• A. Bruising and lethargy
• B. Anorexia and malaise
• C. Fatigability and jaundice
• D. Dark urine and pale stools

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anorexia and malaise. The prodromal phase of acute viral hepatitis is characterized by nonspecific symptoms such as anorexia (loss of appetite) and malaise (general feeling of discomfort). These symptoms typically precede the more specific signs of jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools that manifest in the icteric phase. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because bruising and lethargy, fatigability and jaundice, and dark urine and pale stools are typically seen in later stages of acute viral hepatitis, not in the prodromal phase.

3. 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.

4. What is the priority assessment for a nurse when caring for an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?

• A. Hold feedings.
• B. Check gastric residuals before feedings.
• C. Take rectal temperature.
• D. Closely monitor abdominal distention.

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.

5. What is the best initial intervention for a child experiencing moderate dehydration?

• A. Administer IV fluids
• B. Encourage oral rehydration
• C. Monitor vital signs
• D. Provide clear fluids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage oral rehydration. Oral rehydration is the first-line treatment for moderate dehydration in children. It helps restore fluid balance and electrolyte levels. Administering IV fluids (Choice A) is usually reserved for severe cases of dehydration where oral rehydration is not feasible or ineffective. Monitoring vital signs (Choice C) is important but should not replace the immediate need for rehydration. Providing clear fluids (Choice D) may not contain the necessary electrolytes required for effective rehydration.

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