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 young child has coarctation of the aorta. What does the nurse expect to identify when taking the child’s vital signs?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In coarctation of the aorta, there is narrowing of the aorta leading to decreased blood flow distal to the constriction. This results in a weak or delayed femoral pulse and a relatively weaker radial pulse compared to the femoral pulse. An irregular heartbeat (choice B) is not a typical finding in coarctation of the aorta. A bounding femoral pulse (choice C) would not be expected due to the decreased blood flow beyond the constriction. An elevated radial blood pressure (choice D) is not a common characteristic of coarctation of the aorta; instead, blood pressure may be higher in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities due to the constriction.

3. The mother of a 5-year-old boy with a myelomeningocele, who has developed a sensitivity to latex, is being taught by the nurse. Which response from his mother indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C, 'A product's label always indicates whether it is latex-free,' indicates a need for further teaching. Not all products are clearly labeled as latex-free; therefore, it is essential to verify with manufacturers and healthcare providers. Choices A, B, and D demonstrate appropriate understanding of managing latex sensitivity in the child. Wearing a medical alert identification (Choice A), informing caregivers (Choice B), and avoiding all contact with latex (Choice D) are all important aspects of managing a child's latex sensitivity.

4. Where should the child admitted with injuries that may be related to abuse be placed?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to place the child in a room near the nurses’ desk. This placement allows for close monitoring of the child's condition and facilitates quick intervention if necessary. Placing the child in a private room (Choice A) may not provide the necessary level of oversight in cases of suspected abuse. Additionally, placing the child with an older, friendly child (Choice B) or a child of the same age (Choice C) may not be appropriate due to the need for careful monitoring and protection in cases of potential abuse.

5. A child has coarctation of the aorta. What does the nurse expect to identify when taking the child’s vital signs?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a child has coarctation of the aorta, the nurse would expect to identify a weak radial pulse when taking the child's vital signs. Coarctation of the aorta results in a narrowing of the aorta, leading to reduced blood flow and a weakened pulse. An irregular heartbeat (Choice B) is less likely to be associated with coarctation of the aorta. Similarly, a bounding femoral pulse (Choice C) is not typically observed with this condition. An elevated radial blood pressure (Choice D) is less common as coarctation of the aorta usually causes decreased blood pressure in the lower extremities due to the aortic narrowing.

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