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. What are the most common signs and symptoms of leukemia related to bone marrow involvement?

• A. petechiae, infection, fatigue
• B. headache, papilledema, irritability
• C. muscle wasting, weight loss, fatigue
• D. decreased intracranial pressure, psychosis, confusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Petechiae, infection, and fatigue are common signs and symptoms of leukemia related to bone marrow involvement. Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin due to low platelet counts. Infection susceptibility increases due to decreased white blood cells from compromised bone marrow function. Fatigue is a common symptom of anemia resulting from decreased red blood cell production. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical signs and symptoms of leukemia associated with bone marrow dysfunction.

3. A nurse is caring for an infant with phenylketonuria (PKU). What diet should the nurse anticipate will be ordered by the healthcare provider?

• A. Fat-free
• B. Protein-enriched
• C. Phenylalanine-free
• D. Low-phenylalanine

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is necessary for infants with PKU because it helps prevent the accumulation of phenylalanine, which can result in brain damage. Fat-free (Choice A) and protein-enriched (Choice B) diets are not specifically indicated for PKU. While phenylalanine-free (Choice C) may seem logical, complete elimination of phenylalanine is not practical or safe as it is an essential amino acid. Therefore, the correct choice is a low-phenylalanine diet, which restricts phenylalanine intake to a safe level.

4. What type of play do nurses expect when observing a toddler in a playroom with other children?

• A. Parallel
• B. Solitary
• C. Cooperative
• D. Competitive

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Parallel. Toddlers typically engage in parallel play, where they play alongside but not directly with other children. This type of play is common during early childhood as children are still developing social skills and may prefer to play independently while observing others. Choice B, Solitary play, refers to a child playing alone without interacting with others. Choice C, Cooperative play, involves children playing together towards a common goal or activity. Choice D, Competitive play, emphasizes winning and outperforming others, which is less common in toddlers as they are in the stage of exploring and learning through play rather than competing.

5. During a physical examination of a 9-month-old baby, the nurse observes a flat, discolored area on the skin. The nurse documents this as a:

• A. Papule.
• B. Macule.
• C. Vesicle.
• D. Scale.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Macule. A macule is a flat, discolored area on the skin that is smaller than 1 cm in diameter. This term is used to describe conditions like freckles or petechiae. Choice A, Papule, refers to a small, solid, raised skin lesion (<0.5 cm) like a pimple. Choice C, Vesicle, describes a small blister filled with clear fluid. Choice D, Scale, refers to flakes or plates of dead skin that may be dry or greasy.

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