Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following parameters would be LEAST reliable when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock?

• A. distal capillary refill
• B. systolic blood pressure
• C. skin color and temperature
• D. presence of peripheral pulses

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Systolic blood pressure is the least reliable parameter when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock. In pediatric patients, especially young children, blood pressure may not decrease until significant shock has already occurred, making it a late indicator of inadequate perfusion. Depending solely on systolic blood pressure to evaluate perfusion status in this age group can lead to a delay in appropriate interventions. Distal capillary refill time, skin color, and temperature changes, and the presence of peripheral pulses are more sensitive and early indicators of perfusion status in pediatric patients. Monitoring distal capillary refill provides information on peripheral perfusion, while changes in skin color and temperature can signal circulatory compromise. Evaluating the presence or absence of peripheral pulses offers insights into vascular perfusion. These parameters offer more reliable and prompt feedback on a child's perfusion status compared to systolic blood pressure.

2. A 6-year-old child with asthma is admitted to the hospital with an acute exacerbation. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering a bronchodilator
• B. Administering an antihistamine
• C. Administering a corticosteroid
• D. Administering oxygen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention for a child experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation. Bronchodilators help to dilate the airways, making breathing easier and relieving acute symptoms of asthma. Antihistamines are not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations; they are more commonly used for allergic reactions. Corticosteroids are beneficial in reducing inflammation in asthma but are usually administered after bronchodilators to provide long-term control. Oxygen therapy may be necessary in severe cases of asthma exacerbation, but bronchodilators take precedence in improving airway patency and respiratory distress.

3. What is the most common cause of shock (hypoperfusion) in infants and children?

• A. infection
• B. cardiac failure
• C. accidental poisoning
• D. severe allergic reaction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Infection is the most common cause of shock in infants and children due to their increased susceptibility to sepsis. Infants and children have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more prone to infections that can lead to septic shock. While cardiac failure is a serious condition, it is not the most common cause of shock in this population. Accidental poisoning, though dangerous, is less common than infection in causing shock in infants and children. Severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylactic shock, but they are not as prevalent as infections in causing shock in this age group.

4. A child with a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Administering pancreatic enzymes
• B. Providing respiratory therapy
• C. Providing nutritional support
• D. Encouraging physical activity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is administering pancreatic enzymes. In cystic fibrosis, there is a deficiency in pancreatic enzymes, leading to poor digestion and malabsorption of nutrients. Administering pancreatic enzymes is essential to ensure proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Providing respiratory therapy and nutritional support are important aspects of care for a child with cystic fibrosis, but addressing the pancreatic enzyme deficiency takes priority in this scenario. Encouraging physical activity is beneficial for overall health but is not the priority intervention in this case.

5. A 2-year-old child with a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis is being discharged. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Avoid triggers that cause flare-ups
• B. Apply topical corticosteroids as prescribed
• C. Use a soft toothbrush for oral care
• D. Avoid contact with sick individuals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Apply topical corticosteroids as prescribed.' Atopic dermatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and itchiness of the skin. Topical corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms in atopic dermatitis. Teaching the caregiver to apply the medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider is crucial for managing the child's condition effectively. Choices A, C, and D are not the priority discharge teaching for atopic dermatitis. While avoiding triggers that cause flare-ups and contact with sick individuals can be beneficial, the immediate focus should be on proper medication administration to address the underlying inflammation and symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

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