which of the following findings would indicate an altered mental status in a small child
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Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

Pediatrics HESI 2023

1. Which of the following findings would indicate altered mental status in a small child?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a small child, displaying a lack of attention to the EMT-B's presence would indicate altered mental status. This behavior suggests a diminished level of consciousness or awareness, which is concerning. Recognizing the parents (Choice A) is a normal and expected behavior for a child. Showing fright at the EMT-B's presence (Choice B) may indicate fear or anxiety but not necessarily altered mental status. Maintaining consistent eye contact with the EMT-B (Choice D) may indicate engagement or curiosity rather than altered mental status.

2. A nurse is teaching a parent how to prevent accidents while caring for a 6-month-old infant. What ability should be emphasized regarding the infant’s motor development?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is "B: Rolls over." At 6 months, most infants can roll over, which increases the risk of falls. Emphasizing the infant's ability to roll over is crucial to highlight the need for careful supervision and accident prevention. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because sitting up, crawling short distances, and standing while holding on to furniture typically develop later in an infant's motor skills progression and are not as directly associated with an increased risk of accidents at this stage.

3. After a child returns from surgery for a tracheostomy, what is the priority nursing action?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing action after a tracheostomy surgery is to suction the tracheostomy tube. Suctioning helps maintain a clear airway and prevent complications such as airway obstruction or respiratory distress. While monitoring respiratory status is important, suctioning takes precedence immediately post-surgery to ensure adequate air exchange. Changing the tracheostomy dressing and ensuring tracheostomy ties are secure are also essential tasks but are secondary to the critical need for airway maintenance through suctioning.

4. The parents of a 2-year-old child tell the nurse that they are having difficulty disciplining their child. What is the nurse’s most appropriate response?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate response for the nurse is to emphasize the importance of consistency in discipline when dealing with toddlers. Toddlers are at an age where they are learning boundaries and acceptable behaviors. By being consistent, parents can help their child understand what is expected of them and establish a sense of structure and routine. Choices A, B, and D do not provide constructive advice or guidance on how to address the issue of disciplining a 2-year-old. Choice A merely acknowledges the age without providing guidance, choice B seeks more information without offering support, and choice D labels the age without offering practical advice on discipline.

5. A child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is under the care of a nurse. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is administering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are commonly used in the treatment of JIA to help alleviate symptoms. While encouraging a diet high in protein, applying heat to affected joints, and providing range-of-motion exercises are essential components of care, addressing pain and inflammation with NSAIDs is the priority intervention. This is because controlling pain and inflammation is crucial in improving the child's comfort and quality of life, which takes precedence over other supportive measures.

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