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 5-year-old child with a diagnosis of asthma is being evaluated for medication management. What is an important assessment for the nurse to perform?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the child's dietary intake is crucial for managing asthma symptoms as certain foods can trigger or worsen asthma attacks. Monitoring dietary intake helps ensure the child receives proper nutrition and avoids triggers. Assessing sleep patterns (Choice A) may be relevant but not as directly impactful on asthma management. Academic performance (Choice C) and behavior at home (Choice D) are important aspects of a child's overall health but are not as directly related to asthma management as dietary intake.

3. When caring for a child diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, what is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention when caring for a child with cystic fibrosis is administering pancreatic enzymes. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the digestive and respiratory systems. Administering pancreatic enzymes is crucial in aiding digestion as patients with cystic fibrosis often have pancreatic insufficiency. While providing respiratory therapy and encouraging physical activity are important aspects of care for individuals with cystic fibrosis, administering pancreatic enzymes takes precedence in addressing the malabsorption issues associated with the condition. Encouraging frequent handwashing is also essential in infection control, but it is not the priority intervention specifically related to managing cystic fibrosis.

4. What should be included in the nursing plan of care for a 6-month-old infant admitted to the pediatric unit with a diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Maintain standard and contact precautions. RSV is highly contagious, primarily spread through respiratory secretions. Therefore, it is crucial to implement infection control measures such as standard and contact precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients, staff, and visitors. Choice A is incorrect because warmth and dryness are not specific interventions for RSV; the focus should be on infection control. Choice B may increase the risk of exposing others to RSV, so limiting visitors is recommended. Choice D is unnecessary because RSV is a viral infection, and antibiotics are not effective against viruses.

5. While caring for a 5-year-old child hospitalized for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), what is the priority nursing intervention?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is preventing infection due to their compromised immune system. Children undergoing treatment for ALL are highly susceptible to infections, making infection prevention crucial for the child's well-being and treatment success. Administering antibiotics, though important in specific cases, is not the priority in this scenario. Providing nutritional support and managing pain are significant aspects of care but take a back seat to infection prevention in this situation.

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