Nursing Elites

1. Which physiological acid-base balance complication would be most important for the nurse to assess in a patient with diarrhea?

• A. High serum pH
• B. Normal serum pH
• C. Metabolic alkalosis
• D. Metabolic acidosis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is metabolic acidosis. Diarrhea can lead to the loss of bicarbonate, causing an imbalance in the acid-base status of the body, specifically resulting in metabolic acidosis. High serum pH (choice A) is incorrect as diarrhea-induced bicarbonate loss would lower pH, not increase it. Normal serum pH (choice B) is not the best answer as diarrhea can disrupt the acid-base balance. Metabolic alkalosis (choice C) is an alkaline state, which is less likely to be caused by diarrhea.

2. What intervention is crucial during a sickle cell crisis in a child?

• A. Administer oxygen
• B. Apply cold compresses
• C. Restrict fluids
• D. Encourage bed rest

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering oxygen is crucial during a sickle cell crisis in a child as it helps to prevent further sickling of cells. Oxygen therapy can improve oxygen saturation levels, reducing the risk of tissue damage and complications. Applying cold compresses (choice B) is not recommended as it can potentially worsen vaso-occlusive crisis by causing vasoconstriction. Restricting fluids (choice C) is not appropriate as hydration is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain adequate blood flow. Encouraging bed rest (choice D) may be necessary but administering oxygen takes precedence in managing a sickle cell crisis.

3. The parent of a 2-week-old infant asks the nurse if fluoride supplements are necessary because the infant is exclusively breastfed. What is the nurse's best response?

• A. The infant needs to begin taking them now.
• B. Supplements are not needed if you drink fluoridated water.
• C. The infant may need to begin taking them at age 6 months.
• D. The infant can have infant cereal mixed with fluoridated water instead of supplements.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Breastfed infants may need fluoride supplements starting at 6 months if they are not receiving fluoride from other sources, such as drinking water.

4. Which drug is usually the best choice for patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for a child in the immediate postoperative period?

• A. Codeine sulfate (Codeine)
• B. Morphine (Roxanol)
• C. Methadone (Dolophine)
• D. Meperidine (Demerol)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Morphine is the drug of choice for PCA in children because of its efficacy, safety profile, and rapid onset of action for pain management.

5. When doing a nutritional assessment on a Hispanic family, the nurse learns that their diet consists mainly of vegetables, legumes, and starches. The nurse should recognize that this diet is which?

• A. Lacking in protein
• B. Indicating they live in poverty
• C. Providing sufficient amino acids
• D. Needing enrichment with meat and milk

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and starches can provide sufficient amino acids, particularly when complemented with varied food sources to ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients.

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