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. The nurse is assisting low-income families to access health care. The nurse is aware that, in today's society, this most accurately defines the diversity of a modern family.

• A. A family consists of parents and their offspring living together.
• B. A family is whatever the child and family say it is.
• C. A family is two or more people related or unrelated who are living together.
• D. A family is two or more genetically related persons living together with separate roles.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Given the diversity of families in today's society, some believe that family should be defined as whatever the child and family say it is.

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

• A. Suctioning the tracheostomy tube
• B. Changing the tracheostomy dressing
• C. Monitoring respiratory status
• D. Ensuring the tracheostomy ties are secure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing action after a child has undergone tracheostomy surgery is to suction the tracheostomy tube. Suctioning is crucial to maintain a clear airway, remove secretions, and prevent potential airway obstruction, which is essential for the child's respiratory function. Changing the tracheostomy dressing, while important for wound care, does not take precedence over airway clearance. Monitoring respiratory status is vital but comes after ensuring airway patency. Ensuring tracheostomy ties are secure is significant for stabilizing the tube but is not as urgent as maintaining a patent airway through suctioning.

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

• A. In a private room
• B. With an older, friendly child
• C. With a child of the same age
• D. In a room near the nurses’ desk

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. Based on developmental norms for a 5-year-old child, at what apical pulse did the nurse decide to withhold a scheduled dose of digoxin (Lanoxin) elixir and notify the health care provider?

• A. 60 beats/min
• B. 70 beats/min
• C. 90 beats/min
• D. 100 beats/min

Correct answer: C

Rationale: For a 5-year-old child, an apical pulse below 90 beats/min is a reason to withhold digoxin. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions, and its administration is based on heart rate parameters. A pulse rate below 90 beats/min indicates bradycardia. In pediatric patients, bradycardia below this threshold may be a sign of toxicity or potential adverse effects of digoxin, necessitating withholding the medication and informing the healthcare provider. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they represent pulse rates above the threshold for withholding digoxin in a 5-year-old child.

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