Peds Exam 3

Match the type of visual impairment to its definition. a. Myopia b. Hyperopia c. Astigmatism d. Anisometropia e. Amblyopia 1. Different refractive strength in each eye 2. Ability to see objects clearly at close range but not at a distance 3. Reduced visual acuity in one eye 4. Unequal curvatures in refractive apparatus 5. Ability to see objects at a distance but not at a close range

1. ANS: D DIF: 2. ANS: A DIF: 3. ANS: E DIF: 4. ANS: C DIF: 5. ANS: B DIF:

A child has been admitted with status epilepticus. An emergency medication has been ordered. What medication should the nurse expect to be prescribed? a. Lorazepam (Ativan) b. Phenytoin (Dilantin) c. Topiramate (Topamax) d. Ethosuximide (Zarontin)

ANS: A For in-hospital management of status epilepticus, intravenous diazepam or lorazepam (Ativan) is the first-line drug of choice. Lorazepam is the preferred agent because of its rapid onset (25 minutes) and long half-life (1224 hours) with few side effects.

The nurse is caring for a 10-year-old child who has an acute head injury, has a pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale score of 9, and is unconscious. What intervention should the nurse include in the childs care plan? a. Elevate the head of the bed 15 to 30 degrees with the head maintained in midline. b. Maintain an active, stimulating environment. c. Perform chest percussion and suctioning every 1 to 2 hours. d. Perform active range of motion and nontherapeutic touch every 8 hours.

ANS: A A Nursing activities for children with head trauma and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) include elevating the head of the bed 15 to 30 degrees and maintaining the head in a midline position. The nurse should try to maintain a quiet, nonstimulating environment for a child with increased ICP. Chest percussion and suctioning should be performed judiciously because they can elevate ICP. Range of motion should be passive and nontherapeutic touch should be avoided because both of these activities can increase ICP.

A lumbar puncture (LP) is being done on an infant with suspected meningitis. The nurse expects which results for the cerebrospinal fluid that can confirm the diagnosis of meningitis? a. WBCs; glucose b. RBCs; normal WBCs c. glucose; normal RBCs d. Normal RBCs; normal glucose

ANS: A A lumbar puncture is the definitive diagnostic test. The fluid pressure is measured and samples are obtained for culture, Gram stain, blood cell count, and determination of glucose and protein content. The findings are usually diagnostic. The patient generally has an elevated white blood cell count, often predominantly polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The glucose level is reduced, generally in proportion to the duration and severity of the infection.

A young child with leukemia has anorexia and severe stomatitis. What approach should the nurse suggest that the parents try? a. Relax any eating pressures. b. Firmly insist that the child eat normally. c. Serve foods that are either hot or cold. d. Provide only liquids because chewing is painful.

ANS: A A multifaceted approach is necessary for children with severe stomatitis and anorexia. First, the parents should relax eating pressures. The nurse should suggest that the parents try soft, bland foods; normal saline or bicarbonate mouthwashes; and local anesthetics. Insisting that the child eat normally is not suggested. For some children, not eating may be a way to maintain some control. This can set the child and caregiver in opposition to each other. Hot and cold foods can be painful on ulcerated mucosal membranes. Substitution of high-calorie foods that the child likes and can eat should be used.

After chemotherapy is begun for a child with acute leukemia, prophylaxis to prevent acute tumor lysis syndrome includes which therapeutic intervention? a. Hydration b. Oxygenation c. Corticosteroids d. Pain management

ANS: A Acute tumor lysis syndrome results from the release of intracellular metabolites during the initial treatment of leukemia. Hyperuricemia, hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hyperkalemia can result. Hydration is used to reduce the metabolic consequences of the tumor lysis. Oxygenation is not helpful in preventing acute tumor lysis syndrome. Allopurinol, not corticosteroids, is indicated for pharmacologic management. Pain management may be indicated for supportive therapy of the child, but it does not prevent acute tumor lysis syndrome

A 17-year-old patient is returning to the surgical unit after Luque instrumentation for scoliosis repair. In addition to the usual postoperative care, what additional intervention will be needed? a. Position changes are made by log rolling. b. Assistance is needed to use the bathroom. c. The head of the bed is elevated to minimize spinal headache. d. Passive range of motion is instituted to prevent neurologic injury.

ANS: A After scoliosis repair using a Luque procedure, the adolescent is turned by log rolling to prevent damage to the fusion and instrumentation. The patient is kept flat in bed for the first 12 hours and is not ambulatory until the second or third postoperative day. A urinary catheter is placed. The head of the bed is not elevated until the second postoperative day. Range of motion exercises are begun on the second postoperative day.

A 10-year-old child, without a history of previous seizures, experiences a tonic-clonic seizure at school that lasts more than 5 minutes. Breathing is not impaired. Some postictal confusion occurs. What is the most appropriate initial action by the school nurse? a. Stay with child and have someone else call emergency medical services (EMS). b. Notify the parent and regular practitioner. c. Notify the parent that the child should go home. d. Stay with the child, offering calm reassurance.

ANS: A Because this is the childs first seizure and it lasted more than 5 minutes, EMS should be called to transport the child, and evaluation should be performed as soon as possible. The nurse should stay with the recovering child while someone else notifies EMS.

A child has been diagnosed with a Wilms tumor. What should preoperative nursing care include? a. Careful bathing and handling b. Monitoring of behavioral status c. Maintenance of strict isolation d. Administration of packed red blood cells

ANS: A Careful bathing and handling are important in preventing trauma to the Wilms tumor site.

The health care provider suggests surgery be performed for ventricular septal defect to prevent what complication? a. Pulmonary hypertension b. Right-to-left shunt of blood c. Pulmonary embolism d. Left ventricular hypertrophy

ANS: A Congenital heart defects with a large left-to-right shunt (e.g., in ventricular septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, or complete AV canal), which cause increased pulmonary blood flow, may result in pulmonary hypertension. If these defects are not repaired early, the high pulmonary flow will cause changes in the pulmonary artery vessels, and the vessels will lose their elasticity. The blood does not shunt right to left, a pulmonary embolism is not a complication of ventricular septal defect, and the left ventricle does not hypertrophy.

Nursing care of the child with Kawasaki disease is challenging because of which occurrence? a. The childs irritability b. Predictable disease course c. Complex antibiotic therapy d. The childs ongoing requests for food

ANS: A Patient irritability is a hallmark of Kawasaki disease and is the most challenging problem. A quiet environment is necessary to promote rest. The diagnosis is often difficult to make, and the course of the disease can be unpredictable. Intravenous gamma globulin and salicylates are the therapy of choice, not antibiotics. The child often is reluctant to eat. Soft foods and fluids should be offered to prevent dehydration.

One pediatric oncologic emergency is acute tumor lysis syndrome. Symptoms that this may be occurring include what? a. Muscle cramps and tetany b. Respiratory distress and cyanosis c. Thrombocytopenia and sepsis d. Upper extremity edema and neck vein distension

ANS: A Risk factors for development of tumor lysis syndrome include a high white blood cell count at diagnosis, large tumor burden, sensitivity to chemotherapy, and high proliferative rate. In addition to the described metabolic abnormalities, children may develop a spectrum of clinical symptoms, including flank pain, lethargy, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, pruritus, tetany, and seizures. Respiratory distress and cyanosis occur with hyperleukocytosis. Thrombocytopenia and sepsis occur with disseminated intravascular coagulation. Upper extremity edema and neck vein distention occur with superior vena cava syndrome.

A young girl has just injured her ankle at school. In addition to notifying the childs parents, what is the most appropriate, immediate action by the school nurse? a. Apply ice. b. Observe for edema and discoloration. c. Encourage child to assume a position of comfort. d. Obtain parental permission for administration of acetaminophen or aspirin.

ANS: A Soft tissue injuries should be iced immediately. In addition to ice, the extremity should be rested, be elevated, and have compression applied. The nurse observes for the edema while placing a cold pack. The applying of ice can reduce the severity of the injury. Maintaining the ankle at a position elevated above the heart is important. The nurse helps the child be comfortable with this requirement. The nurse obtains parental permission for administration of acetaminophen or aspirin after ice and rest are assured.

What structural defects constitute tetralogy of Fallot? a. Pulmonary stenosis, ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, right ventricular hypertrophy b. Aortic stenosis, ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, right ventricular hypertrophy c. Aortic stenosis, ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, left ventricular hypertrophy d. Pulmonary stenosis, ventricular septal defect, aortic hypertrophy, left ventricular hypertrophy

ANS: A Tetralogy of Fallot has these four characteristics: pulmonary stenosis, ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, and right ventricular hypertrophy.

The nurse should expect to care for which age of child if the admitting diagnosis is retinoblastoma? a. Infant or toddler b. Preschool- or school-age child c. School-age or adolescent child d. Adolescent

ANS: A The average age of the child at the time of diagnosis is 2 years, and bilateral and hereditary disease is diagnosed earlier than unilateral and nonhereditary disease.

What is a major goal for the therapeutic management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)? a. Control pain and preserve joint function. b. Minimize use of joint and achieve cure. c. Prevent skin breakdown and relieve symptoms. d. Reduce joint discomfort and regain proper alignment.

ANS: A The goals of therapy are to control pain, preserve joint range of motion and function, minimize the effects of inflammation, and promote normal growth and development. There is no cure for JIA at this time. Skin breakdown is not an issue for most children with JIA. Symptom relief and reduction in discomfort are important. When the joints are damaged, it is often irreversible.

What primary nursing intervention should be implemented to prevent bacterial endocarditis? a. Counsel parents of high-risk children. b. Institute measures to prevent dental procedures. c. Encourage restricted mobility in susceptible children. d. Observe children for complications, such as embolism and heart failure.

ANS: A The objective of nursing care is to counsel the parents of high-risk children about the need for both prophylactic antibiotics for dental procedures and maintaining excellent oral health. The childs dentist should be aware of the childs cardiac condition. Dental procedures should be done to maintain a high level of oral health. Restricted mobility in susceptible children is not indicated. Parents are taught to observe for unexplained fever, weight loss, or change in behavior.

The nurse is caring for a neonate born with a myelomeningocele. Surgery to repair the defect is scheduled the next day. What is the most appropriate way to position and feed this neonate? a. Prone with the head turned to the side b. On the side c. Supine in an infant carrier d. Supine, with defect supported with rolled blankets

ANS: A The prone position with the head turned to the side for feeding is the optimum position for the infant. It protects the spinal sac and allows the infant to be fed without trauma. The side-lying position is avoided preoperatively. It can place tension on the sac and affect hip dysplasia if present. The infant should not be placed in a supine position.

A parent of a 7-year-old girl with a repaired ventricular septal defect (VSD) calls the cardiology clinic and reports that the child is just not herself. Her appetite is decreased, she has had intermittent fevers around 38 C (100.4 F), and now her muscles and joints ache. Based on this information, how should the nurse advise the mother? a. Immediately bring the child to the clinic for evaluation. b. Come to the clinic next week on a scheduled appointment. c. Treat the signs and symptoms with acetaminophen and fluids because it is most likely a viral illness. d. Recognize that the child is trying to manipulate the parent by complaining of vague symptoms.

ANS: A These are the insidious symptoms of bacterial endocarditis. Because the child is in a high-risk group for this disorder (VSD repair), immediate evaluation and treatment are indicated to prevent cardiac damage. With appropriate antibiotic therapy, bacterial endocarditis is successfully treated in approximately 80% of the cases. The childs complaints should not be dismissed. The low-grade fever is not a symptom that the child can fabricate.

The nurse is teaching the parents of a 1-month-old infant with developmental dysplasia of the hip about preventing skin breakdown under the Pavlik harness. What statement by the parent would indicate a correct understanding of the teaching? a. I should gently massage the skin under the straps once a day to stimulate circulation. b. I will apply a lotion for sensitive skin under the straps after my baby has been given a bath to prevent skin irritation. c. I should remove the harness several times a day to prevent contractures. d. I will place the diaper over the harness, preferably using a superabsorbent disposable diaper that is relatively thin.

ANS: A To prevent skin breakdown with an infant who has developmental dysplasia of the hip and is in a Pavlik harness, the parent should gently massage the skin under the straps once a day to stimulate circulation. The parent should not apply lotions or powder because this could irritate the skin. The parent should not remove the harness, except during a bath, and should place the diaper under the straps.

The nurse is preparing to admit a neonate with bacterial meningitis. What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Jaundice b. Cyanosis c. Poor tone d. Nuchal rigidity e. Poor sucking ability

ANS: A, B, C, E Clinical manifestations of bacterial meningitis in a neonate include jaundice, cyanosis, poor tone, and poor sucking ability. The neck is usually supple in neonates with meningitis, and there is no nuchal rigidity.

The nurse is preparing to admit an adolescent with bacterial meningitis. What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Fever b. Chills c. Headache d. Poor tone e. Drowsiness

ANS: A, B, C, E Clinical manifestations of bacterial meningitis in an adolescent include, fever, chills, headache, and drowsiness. Hyperactivity is present, not poor tone.

The nurse is preparing to admit a 6-month-old infant with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe in this infant? (Select all that apply.) a. High-pitched cry b. Poor feeding c. Setting-sun sign d. Sunken fontanel e. Distended scalp veins f. Decreased head circumference

ANS: A, B, C, E Clinical manifestations of increased ICP in an infant include a high-pitched cry, poor feeding, setting-sun sign, and distended scalp veins. The infant would have a tense, bulging fontanel and an increased head circumference.

In teaching a 16-year-old adolescent who was recently diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), what statements should the nurse include? (Select all that apply.) a. You should use a moisturizer with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. b. You should avoid pregnancy because this can cause a flare-up. c. You should not receive any immunizations in the future. d. You may need to be on a low-protein, high-carbohydrate diet. e. You should expect to lose weight while taking steroids. f. You may need to modify your daily recreational activities.

ANS: A, B, F Teaching for an adolescent with SLE should foster adaptation and self-advocacy and include using a moisturizer with an SPF of 30, avoiding pregnancy because it can produce a flare-up, and modifying recreational activities but continuing with daily exercise as an essential part of the treatment plan. The adolescent should continue to receive immunizations as scheduled, should expect to gain weight while on steroid therapy, and would not have a specialized diet.

The nurse is caring for a child with meningitis. What acute complications of meningitis should the nurse continuously assess the child for? (Select all that apply.) a. Seizures b. Cerebral palsy c. Cerebral edema d. Hydrocephalus e. Cognitive impairments

ANS: A, C, D Acute complications of meningitis include syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), subdural effusions, seizures, cerebral edema and herniation, and hydrocephalus. Long-term complications include cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments, learning disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and seizures.

The nurse is caring for a child with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What interventions should the nurse plan for this child? (Select all that apply.) a. Avoid jarring the bed. b. Keep the room brightly lit. c. Keep the bed in a flat position. d. Administer prescribed stool softeners. e. Administer a prescribed antiemetic for nausea.

ANS: A, D, E Other measures to relieve discomfort for a child with ICP include providing a quiet, dimly lit environment; limiting visitors; preventing any sudden, jarring movement, such as banging into the bed; and preventing an increase in ICP. The latter is most effectively achieved by proper positioning and prevention of straining, such as during coughing, vomiting, or defecating. An antiemetic should be administered to prevent vomiting, and stool softeners should be prescribed to prevent straining with bowel movements. The head of the bed should be elevated 15 to 30 degrees.

A child with heart failure is on Lanoxin (digoxin). The laboratory value a nurse must closely monitor is which? a. Serum sodium b. Serum potassium c. Serum glucose d. Serum chloride

ANS: B A fall in the serum potassium level enhances the effects of digoxin, increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Increased serum potassium levels diminish digoxins effect. Therefore, serum potassium levels (normal range, 3.55.5 mmol/L) must be carefully monitored.

Which explains the importance of detecting strabismus in young children? a. Color vision deficit may result. b. Amblyopia, a type of blindness, may result. c. Epicanthal folds may develop in the affected eye. d. Corneal light reflexes may fall symmetrically within each pupil.

ANS: B By the age of 3 to 4 months, infants are able to fixate on one visual field with both eyes simultaneously. In strabismus, or cross-eye, one eye deviates from the point of fixation. If misalignment is constant, the weak eye becomes lazy, and the brain eventually suppresses the image produced from that eye. If strabismus is not detected and corrected by age 4 to 6 years, blindness from disuse, known as amblyopia, may occur. Color vision is not the only concern. Epicanthal folds are not related to amblyopia. In children with strabismus, the corneal light reflex will not be symmetric for each eye

What intervention should be included in the nursing care of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)? a. Assign multiple staff to care for the child. b. Communicate with the child at his or her developmental level. c. Provide a wide variety of foods for the child to try. d. Place the child in a semiprivate room with a roommate of a similar age.

ANS: B Children with ASD require individualized care. The nurse needs to communicate with the child at the childs developmental level. Consistent caregivers are essential for children with ASD. The same staff members should care for the child as much as possible. Children with ASD do not adapt to changing situations. The same foods should be provided to allow the child to adjust. A private room is desirable for children with ASD. Stimulation is minimized.

A child is on phenytoin (Dilantin). What should the nurse encourage? a. Fluid restriction b. Good dental hygiene c. A decrease in vitamin D intake d. Taking the medication with milk

ANS: B Chronic treatment with phenytoin may cause gum hypertrophy. Children taking phenobarbital or phenytoin should receive adequate vitamin D and folic acid because deficiencies of both have been associated with these drugs. The medication should not be taken with milk, and fluids should be encouraged, not restricted.

The nurse should suspect a child has cerebral palsy (CP) if the parent says what? a. My 6-month-old baby is rolling from back to prone now. b. My 4-month-old doesn't lift his head when on his tummy. c. My 8-month-old can sit without support. d. My 10-month-old is not walking.

ANS: B Delayed gross motor development is a universal manifestation of CP. The child shows a delay in all motor accomplishments, and the discrepancy between motor ability and expected achievement tends to increase with successive developmental milestones as growth advances. The infant who does not lift his head when on the tummy is showing a gross motor delay, as that is seen at 0 to 3 months. The other statements are within normal growth and development expectations.

The nurse is giving discharge instructions to the parent of a 6-year-old child who had a cardiac catheterization 4 hours ago. What statement by the parent indicates a correct understanding of the teaching? a. My child should not attend school for the next 5 days. b. I should change the bandage every day for the next 2 days. c. My child can take a tub bath but should avoid taking a shower for the next 4 days. d. I should expect the site to be red and swollen for the next 3 days.

ANS: B Discharge instructions for a parent of a child who recently had a cardiac catheterization should include changing the bandage every day for the next 2 days. The child should avoid strenuous exercise but can go back to school. The child should avoid a tub bath, but an older child could take a shower the first day after the catheterization. The site should not have swelling or redness; if there is, it should be reported to the health care practitioner

A 2-year-old child is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). The nurse should notify the practitioner and withhold the medication if the apical pulse is less than which rate? a. 60 beats/min b. 90 beats/min c. 100 beats/min d. 120 beats/min

ANS: B If a 1-minute apical pulse is less than 90 beats/min for an infant or young child, the digoxin is withheld. Sixty beats/min is the cut-off for holding the digoxin dose in an adult. One hundred to 120 beats/min is an acceptable pulse rate for the administration of digoxin.

A 2-year-old child starts to have a tonic-clonic seizure. The childs jaws are clamped. What is the most important nursing action at this time? a. Place a padded tongue blade between the childs jaws. b. Stay with the child and observe his respiratory status. c. Prepare the suction equipment. d. Restrain the child to prevent injury.

ANS: B It is impossible to halt a seizure once it has begun, and no attempt should be made to do so. The nurse must remain calm, stay with the child, and prevent the child from sustaining any harm during the seizure. The nurse should not move or forcefully restrain the child during a tonic-clonic seizure and should not place a solid object between the teeth. Suctioning may be needed but not until the seizure has ended.

What statement is true concerning osteogenesis imperfecta (OI)? a. It is easily treated. b. It is an inherited disorder. c. Braces and exercises are of no therapeutic value. d. Later onset disease usually runs a more difficult course.

ANS: B OI is a heterogeneous, autosomal dominant disorder characterized by fractures and bone deformity. Treatment is primarily supportive. Several investigational therapies are being evaluated. The primary goal of therapy is rehabilitation. Lightweight braces and splints help support limbs, prevent fractures, and aid in ambulation. The disease is present at birth. Prognosis is affected by the type of OI.

What sign/symptom is a major clinical manifestation of rheumatic fever (RF)? a. Fever b. Polyarthritis c. Osler nodes d. Janeway spots

ANS: B Polyarthritis, which is swollen, hot, red, and painful joints, is a major clinical manifestation. The affected joints will change every 1 or 2 days. The large joints are primarily affected. Fever is considered a minor manifestation of RF. Osler nodes and Janeway spots are characteristic of bacterial endocarditis.

An adolescent comes to the school nurse after experiencing shin splints during a track meet. What reassurance should the nurse offer? a. Shin splints are expected in runners. b. Ice, rest, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) usually relieve pain. c. It is generally best to run around and work the pain out. d. Moist heat and acetaminophen are indicated for this type of injury.

ANS: B Shin splints result when the ligaments tear away from the tibial shaft and cause pain. Actions that have an antiinflammatory effect are indicated for shin splints. Ice, rest, and NSAIDs are the usual treatment. Shin splints are rarely serious, but they are not expected, and preventive measures are taken. Rest is important to heal the shin splints. Continuing to place stress on the tibia can lead to further damage

A 4-year-old child is placed in Buck extension traction for Legg-Calv-Perthes disease. He is crying with pain as the nurse assesses the skin of his right foot and sees that it is pale with an absence of pulse. What should the nurse do first? a. Reposition the child and notify the practitioner. b. Notify the practitioner of the changes noted. c. Give the child medication to relieve the pain. d. Chart the observations and check the extremity again in 15 minutes.

ANS: B The absence of a pulse and change in color of the foot must be reported immediately for evaluation by the practitioner. This is an emergency condition. Pain medication should be given after the practitioner is notified. The findings should be documented with ongoing assessment.

The nurse knows that parents need further teaching with regard to the treatment of congenital clubfoot when they state what? a. Well keep the cast dry. b. Were happy this is the only cast our baby will need. c. Well watch for any swelling of the foot while the cast is on. d. Were getting a special car seat to accommodate the cast.

ANS: B The common approach to clubfoot management and treatment is the Ponseti method. Serial casting is begun shortly after birth. Weekly gentle manipulation and stretching of the foot along with placement of serial longleg casts allow for gradual repositioning of the foot. The extremity or extremities are casted until maximum correction is achieved, usually within 6 to 10 weeks. If parents state that this is the only cast the infant will need, they need further teaching

The nurse is teaching parents about administering digoxin (Lanoxin). What instructions should the nurse tell the parents? a. If the child vomits, give another dose. b. Give the medication at regular intervals. c. If a dose is missed, give a give an extra dose. d. Give the medication mixed with the childs formula.

ANS: B The family should be taught to administer digoxin at regular intervals. If a dose is missed, an extra dose should not be given; the same schedule should be maintained. If the child vomits, do not give a second dose. The drug should not be mixed with foods or other fluids because refusal to consume these would result in inaccurate intake of the drug.

A child is recovering from Kawasaki disease (KD). The child should be monitored for which? a. Anemia b. Electrocardiograph (ECG) changes c. Elevated white blood cell count d. Decreased platelets

ANS: B The most serious complication of KD is the development of coronary artery aneurysms and the potential for myocardial infarction in children with aneurysm formation. The nurse should monitor any ECG changes.

What blood flow pattern occurs in a ventricular septal defect? a. Mixed blood flow b. Increased pulmonary blood flow c. Decreased pulmonary blood flow d. Obstruction to blood flow from ventricles

ANS: B The opening in the septal wall allows for blood to flow from the higher pressure left ventricle into the lower pressure right ventricle. This left-to-right shunt creates increased pulmonary blood flow. The shunt is one way, from high pressure to lower pressure; oxygenated and unoxygenated blood do not mix. The outflow of blood from the ventricles is not affected by the septal defect.

The most important nursing intervention when caring for an infant with myelomeningocele in the preoperative stage is which? a. Take vital signs every hour. b. Place the infant on the side to decrease pressure on the spinal sac. c. Watch for signs that might indicate developing hydrocephalus. d. Apply a heat lamp to facilitate drying and toughening of the sac.

ANS: B The spinal sac is protected from damage until surgery is performed. Early surgical closure is recommended to prevent local trauma and infection. Monitoring vital signs and watching for signs that might indicate developing hydrocephalus are important interventions, but preventing trauma to the sac is a priority. The sac is kept moist until surgical intervention is done

An infant is diagnosed with transposition of the great vessels. Prostaglandin E1 is given intravenously. The parents ask how long the child will remain on the prostaglandin E1. What is the appropriate response by the nurse? a. Prostaglandin E1 will be given intermittently until corrective surgery is performed. b. Prostaglandin E1 will be given continuously until corrective surgery is performed. c. Prostaglandin E1 will be given continuously throughout the preoperative and postoperative periods until the child is stable. d. Prostaglandin E1 will be given intermittently throughout the preoperative and postoperative periods until the child is stable.

ANS: B To provide intracardiac mixing for a child with transposition of the great arteries, intravenous prostaglandin E1 is administered continuously to keep the ductus arteriosus open to temporarily increase blood mixing and provide an oxygen saturation of 75% or to maintain cardiac output until surgery. It is discontinued after surgery

What is an appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a child in traction? a. Removing adhesive traction straps daily to prevent skin breakdown b. Assessing for tightness, weakness, or contractures in uninvolved joints and muscles c. Providing active range of motion exercises to affected extremity three times a day d. Keeping child prone to maintain good alignment

ANS: B Traction places stress on the affected bone, joint, and muscles. The nurse must assess for tightness, weakness, or contractures developing in the uninvolved joints and muscles. The adhesive straps should be released or replaced only when absolutely necessary. Active, passive, or active with resistance exercises should be carried out for the unaffected extremity only. Movement is expected with children. Each time the child moves, the nurse should check to ensure that proper alignment is maintained.

What clinical manifestation is a common sign of digoxin toxicity? a. Seizures b. Vomiting c. Bradypnea d. Tachycardia

ANS: B Vomiting is a common sign of digoxin toxicity and is often unrelated to feedings. Seizures are not associated with digoxin toxicity. The child will have a slower (not faster) heart rate but not a slower respiratory rate

The nurse is administering an intravenous chemotherapeutic agent to a child with leukemia. The child suddenly begins to wheeze and have severe urticaria. What nursing action is most appropriate to initiate? a. Recheck the rate of drug infusion. b. Stop the drug infusion immediately. c. Observe the child closely for next 10 minutes. d. Explain to the child that this is an expected side effect.

ANS: B When an allergic reaction is suspected, the drug is immediately discontinued. Any drug in the line should be withdrawn, and a normal saline infusion begun to keep the line open. The intravenous infusion is stopped to minimize the amount of drug that infuses. The infusion rate can be confirmed at a later time. Observation of the child for 10 minutes is essential, but it is done after the infusion is stopped. These signs are indicative of an allergic reaction, not an expected response.

The mother of an infant tells the nurse that sometimes there is a whitish glow in the pupil of his eye. The nurse should suspect which condition? a. Brain tumor b. Retinoblastoma c. Neuroblastoma d. Rhabdomyosarcoma

ANS: B When the nurse examines the eye, the light will reflect off of the tumor, giving the eye a whitish appearance. This is called a cats eye reflex. Brain tumors are not usually visible. Neuroblastoma usually arises from the adrenal medulla and sympathetic nervous system. The most common presentation sites are in the abdomen, head, neck, or pelvis. Supraorbital ecchymosis may be present with distant metastasis. Rhabdomyosarcoma is a soft tissue tumor that derives from skeletal muscle undifferentiated cells.

The nurse is caring for a 14-year-old child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Erythema over joints b. Soft tissue contractures c. Swelling in multiple joints d. Morning stiffness of the joints e. Loss of motion in the affected joints

ANS: B, C, D, E Whether single or multiple joints are involved, stiffness, swelling, and loss of motion develop in the affected joints in JIA. The swelling results from soft tissue edema, joint effusion, and synovial thickening. The affected joints may be warm and tender to the touch, but it is not uncommon for pain not to be reported. The limited motion early in the disease is a result of muscle spasm and joint inflammation; later it is caused by ankylosis or soft tissue contracture. Morning stiffness of the joint(s) is characteristic and present on arising in the morning or after inactivity. Erythema is not typical, and a warm, painful, red joint is always suspect for infection

The nurse is caring for a child with Kawasaki disease in the acute phase. What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Osler nodes b. Cervical lymphadenopathy c. Strawberry tongue d. Chorea e. Erythematous palms f. Polyarthritis

ANS: B, C, E Clinical manifestations of Kawasaki disease in the acute phase include cervical lymphadenopathy (swelling of lymph nodes), a strawberry tongue, and erythematous palms (redness involving the heel of the palm). Osler nodes are a clinical manifestation of endocarditis. Chorea and polyarthritis are seen in rheumatic fever.

What cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis should the nurse expect with viral meningitis? (Select all that apply.) a. Color is turbid. b. Protein count is normal. c. Glucose is decreased. d. Gram stain findings are negative. e. White blood cell (WBC) count is slightly elevated.

ANS: B, D, E The CSF analysis in viral meningitis shows a normal or slightly elevated protein count, negative Gram stain, and a slightly elevated WBC. The color is clear or slightly cloudy, and the glucose level is normal.

A 2-year-old child is being admitted to the hospital for possible bacterial meningitis. When preparing for a lumbar puncture, what should the nurse do? a. Set up a tray with equipment the same size as for adults. b. Apply EMLA to the puncture site 15 minutes before the procedure. c. Prepare the child for conscious sedation being used for the procedure. d. Reassure the parents that the test is simple, painless, and risk free.

ANS: C Because of the urgency of the childs condition, conscious sedation should be used for the procedure. Pediatric spinal trays have smaller needles than do adult trays. EMLA should be applied approximately 60 minutes before the procedure; the emergency nature of the spinal tap precludes its use. A spinal tap is not a simple procedure and does have associated risks; analgesia will be given for the pain.

The nurse is teaching a child with a cast about cast removal. What should the nurse teach the child about cast removal? a. The cast cutter will be a quiet machine. b. You will feel cold as the cast is removed. c. You will feel a tickly sensation as the cast is removed. d. The cast cutter cuts through the cast like a circular saw.

ANS: C Cutting the cast to remove it or to relieve tightness is frequently a frightening experience for children. They fear the sound of the cast cutter and are terrified that their flesh, as well as the cast, will be cut. Because it works by vibration, a cast cutter cuts only the hard surface of the cast. The oscillating blade vibrates back and forth very rapidly and will not cut when placed lightly on the skin. Children have described it as producing a tickly sensation.

The nurse is caring for a hospitalized adolescent whose femur was fractured 18 hours ago. The adolescent suddenly develops chest pain and dyspnea. The nurse should suspect what complication? a. Sepsis b. Osteomyelitis c. Pulmonary embolism d. Acute respiratory tract infection

ANS: C Fat emboli are of greatest concern in individuals with fractures of the long bones. Fat droplets from the marrow are transferred to the general circulation, where they are transported to the lung or brain. This type of embolism usually occurs within the second 12 hours after the injury. Sepsis would manifest with fever and lethargy. Osteomyelitis usually is seen with pain at the site of infection and fever. A child with an acute respiratory tract infection would have nasal congestion, not chest pain.

After a tonic-clonic seizure, what symptoms should the nurse expect the child to experience? a. Diarrhea and abdominal discomfort b. Irritability and hunger c. Lethargy and confusion d. Nervousness and excitability

ANS: C In the postictal phase, after a tonic-clonic seizure, the child may remain semiconscious and difficult to arouse. The average duration of the postictal phase is usually 30 minutes. The child may remain confused or sleep for several hours. He or she may have mild impairment of fine motor movements. The child may have visual and speech difficulties and may vomit or complain of headache.

A child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is started on a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID). What nursing consideration should be included? a. Monitor heart rate. b. Administer NSAIDs between meals. c. Check for abdominal pain and bloody stools. d. Expect inflammation to be gone in 3 or 4 days.

ANS: C NSAIDs are the first-line drugs used in JIA. Potential side effects include gastrointestinal (GI), renal, and hepatic side effects. The child is at risk for GI bleeding and elevated blood pressure. The heart rate is not affected by this drug class. NSAIDs should be given with meals to minimize gastrointestinal problems. The antiinflammatory response usually takes 3 weeks before effectiveness can be evaluated.

What action by the school nurse is important in the prevention of rheumatic fever (RF)? a. Encourage routine cholesterol screenings. b. Conduct routine blood pressure screenings. c. Refer children with sore throats for throat cultures. d. Recommend salicylates instead of acetaminophen for minor discomforts.

ANS: C Nurses have a role in prevention, primarily in screening school-age children for sore throats caused by group A streptococci. They can actively participate in throat culture screening or refer children with possible streptococcal sore throats for testing. Routine cholesterol screenings and blood pressure screenings do not facilitate the recognition and treatment of group A hemolytic streptococci. Salicylates should be avoided routinely because of the risk of Reye syndrome after viral illnesses.

What nursing intervention is appropriate when caring for an unconscious child? a. Avoid using narcotics or sedatives to provide comfort and pain relief. b. Change the childs position infrequently to minimize the chance of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). c. Monitor fluid intake and output carefully to avoid fluid overload and cerebral edema. d. Give tepid sponge baths to reduce fevers above 38.3 C (101 F) because antipyretics are contraindicated

ANS: C Often comatose patients cannot cope with the quantity of fluids that they normally tolerate. Overhydration must be avoided to prevent fatal cerebral edema. Narcotics and sedatives should be used as necessary to reduce pain and anxiety, which can increase ICP. The childs position should be changed frequently to avoid complications such as pneumonia and skin breakdown. Antipyretics are the method of choice for fever reduction.

Autism is a complex developmental disorder. The diagnostic criteria for autism include delayed or abnormal functioning in which area with onset before age 3 years? a. Parallel play b. Gross motor development c. Ability to maintain eye contact d. Growth below the fifth percentile

ANS: C One hallmark of autism spectrum disorders is the childs inability to maintain eye contact with another person. Parallel play is play typical of toddlers and is usually not affected. Social, not gross motor, development is affected by autism. Physical growth and development are not usually affected.

What is the primary method of treating osteomyelitis? a. Joint replacement b. Bracing and casting c. Intravenous antibiotic therapy d. Long-term corticosteroid therapy

ANS: C Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone, most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection. The treatment of choice is antibiotics (Vancomycin IV up to 3-4weeks). Joint replacement, bracing and casting, and long-term corticosteroid therapy are not indicated for infectious processes.

The nurse is teaching the parents of a 3-year-old child who has been diagnosed with tonic-clonic seizures. What statement by the parent should indicate a correct understanding of the teaching? a. I should attempt to restrain my child during a seizure. b. My child will need to avoid contact sports until adulthood. c. I should place a pillow under my childs head during a seizure. d. My child will need to be taken to the emergency department [ED] after each seizure.

ANS: C Parents should try to place a pillow or folded blanket under the childs head for protection. The parent should not try to restrain the child during the seizure. The child does not need to go to the ED with each seizures; the nurse can teach parents certain criteria for when their child would need to be seen. Discussing what will happen in adulthood is not appropriate at this time.

What child has a cyanotic congenital heart defect? a. An infant with patent ductus arteriosus b. A 1-year-old infant with atrial septal defect c. A 2-month-old infant with tetralogy of Fallot d. A 6-month-old infant with repaired ventricular septal defect

ANS: C Tetralogy of Fallot is a cyanotic congenital heart defect. Patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, and ventricular septal defect are acyanotic congenital heart defects.

After returning from cardiac catheterization, the nurse monitors the childs vital signs. The heart rate should be counted for how many seconds? a. 15 b. 30 c. 60 d. 120

ANS: C The heart rate is counted for a full minute to determine whether arrhythmias or bradycardia is present. Fifteen to 30 seconds are too short for accurate assessment. Sixty seconds is sufficient to assess heart rate and rhythm.

What is an important nursing consideration when caring for a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)? a. Apply ice packs to relieve acute swelling and pain. b. Administer acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. c. Teach the child and family correct administration of medications. d. Encourage range of motion exercises during periods of inflammation.

ANS: C The management of JIA is primarily pharmacologic. The family should be instructed regarding administration of medications and the value of a regular schedule of administration to maintain a satisfactory blood level in the body. They need to know that nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs should not be given on an empty stomach and to be alert for signs of toxicity. Warm, moist heat is best for relieving stiffness and pain. Acetaminophen does not have antiinflammatory effects. Range of motion exercises should not be done during periods of inflammation.

What needs to be included as essential teaching for adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)? a. High calorie diet because of increased metabolic needs b. Home schooling to decrease the risk of infections c. Protection from sun and fluorescent lights to minimize rash d. Intensive exercise regimen to build up muscle strength and endurance

ANS: C The photosensitive rash is a major concern for individuals with SLE. Adolescents who spend time outdoors need to use sunscreens with a high SPF, hats, and clothing. Uncovered fluorescent lights can also cause a photosensitivity reaction. The diet should be sufficient in calories and nutrients for growth and development. The use of steroids can cause increased hunger, resulting in weight gain. This can present additional emotional issues for the adolescent. Normal functions should be maximized. The individual with SLE is encouraged to attend school and participate in peer activities. A balance of rest and exercise is important; excessive exercise is avoided.

After returning from cardiac catheterization, the nurse determines that the pulse distal to the catheter insertion site is weaker. How should the nurse respond? a. Elevate the affected extremity. b. Notify the practitioner of the observation. c. Record data on the assessment flow record. d. Apply warm compresses to the insertion site.

ANS: C The pulse distal to the catheterization site may be weaker for the first few hours after catheterization but should gradually increase in strength. Documentation of the finding provides a baseline. The extremity is maintained straight for 4 to 6 hours. This is an expected change. The pulse is monitored. If there are neurovascular changes in the extremity, the practitioner is notified. The site is kept dry. Warm compresses are not indicated.

The nurse is teaching parents of a child with cataracts about the upcoming treatment. The nurse should give the parents what information about the treatment of cataracts? a. The treatment may require more than one surgery. b. It is corrected with biconcave lenses that focus rays on the retina. c. Cataracts require surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it. d. Treatment is with a corrective lenses; no surgery is necessary

ANS: C Treatment for cataracts requires surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it (with an intraocular lens implant, removable contact lens, or prescription glasses). Treatment for glaucoma may require more than one surgery. Anisometropia is treated with corrective lenses. Myopia is corrected with biconcave lenses that focus rays on the retina.

What is an important priority in dealing with the child suspected of having Wilms tumor? a. Intervening to minimize bleeding b. Monitoring temperature for infection c. Ensuring the abdomen is protected from palpation d. Teaching parents how to manage the parenteral nutrition

ANS: C Wilms tumor, or nephroblastoma, is the most common malignant renal and intraabdominal tumor of childhood.

What refers to a hernial protrusion of a saclike cyst of meninges, spinal fluid, and a portion of the spinal cord with its nerves through a defect in the vertebral column? a. Rachischisis b. Meningocele c. Encephalocele d. Myelomeningocele

ANS: D A myelomeningocele has a visible defect with an external saclike protrusion, containing meninges, spinal fluid, and nerves. Rachischisis is a fissure in the spinal column that leaves the meninges and the spinal cord exposed. Meningocele is a hernial protrusion of a saclike cyst of meninges with spinal fluid but no neural elements. Encephalocele is a herniation of brain and meninges through a defect in the skull, producing a fluid-filled sac.

What is the most common cause of cerebral palsy (CP)? a. Central nervous system (CNS) diseases b. Birth asphyxia c. Cerebral trauma d. Neonatal encephalopathy

ANS: D Approximately 80% of CP is caused by unknown prenatal causes. Neonatal encephalopathy in term and preterm infants is believed to play a significant role in the development of CP. CNS diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis can result in CP. Birth asphyxia does contribute to some cases of CP. Cerebral trauma, including shaken baby syndrome, can result in CP.

What is a common clinical manifestation of Hodgkin disease? a. Petechiae b. Bone and joint pain c. Painful, enlarged lymph nodes d. Nontender enlargement of lymph nodes

ANS: D Asymptomatic, enlarged cervical or supraclavicular lymphadenopathy is the most common presentation of Hodgkin disease. Petechiae are usually associated with leukemia. Bone and joint pain are not likely in Hodgkin disease. The enlarged nodes are rarely painful.

The nurse is performing a physical assessment on a 3-year-old child. The parents state that the child excessively rubs the eyes and often tilts the head to one side. What visual impairment should the nurse suspect? a. Strabismus b. Astigmatism c. Hyperopia, or farsightedness d. Myopia, or nearsightedness

ANS: D Clinical manifestations of myopia include excessive eye rubbing, head tilting, difficulty reading, headaches, and dizziness. Strabismus, astigmatism, and hyperopia have other clinical manifestations.

The parents of a young child with heart failure (HF) tell the nurse that they are nervous about giving digoxin. The nurses response should be based on which knowledge? a. It is a safe, frequently used drug. b. Parents lack the expertise necessary to administer digoxin. c. It is difficult to either overmedicate or undermedicate with digoxin. d. Parents need to learn specific, important guidelines for administration of digoxin.

ANS: D Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic range. The margin of safety between therapeutic, toxic, and lethal doses is very small. Specific guidelines are available for parents to learn how to administer the drug safely and to monitor for side effects. Parents may lack the expertise to administer the drug at first, but with discharge preparation, they should be prepared to administer the drug safely.

What should the nurse plan for an immobilized child in cervical traction to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)? a. Elevate the childs legs. b. Place a foot cradle on the bed. c. Place a pillow under the childs knees. d. Assist the child to dorsiflex the feet and rotate the ankles.

ANS: D For a child who is immobilized, circulatory stasis and DVT development are prevented by instructing patients to change positions frequently, dorsiflex their feet and rotate the ankles, sit in a bedside chair periodically, or ambulate several times daily. Elevating the legs or placing a foot cradle on the bed will not prevent DVTs. A pillow under the knee would impair circulation, not improve it.

A child has an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 500/mm3 . The nurse should expect to be administering which prescribed treatment? a. Platelets b. Packed red blood cells c. Zofran (ondansetron) d. G-CSF (Neupogen) daily

ANS: D G-CSF (filgrastim [Neupogen], pegfilgrastim [Neulasta]) directs granulocyte development and can decrease the duration of neutropenia following immunosuppressive therapy. G-CSF is discontinued when the ANC surpasses 10,000/mm3 .

A 6-month-old infant presents to the clinic with failure to thrive, a history of frequent respiratory infections, and increasing exhaustion during feedings. On physical examination, a systolic murmur is detected, no central cyanosis, and chest radiography reveals cardiomegaly. An echocardiogram is done that shows left to-right shunting. This assessment data is characteristic of what? a. Tetralogy of Fallot b. Coarctation of the aorta c. Pulmonary stenosis d. Ventricular septal defect

ANS: D Heart failure is common with ventricular septal defect that causes failure to thrive, respiratory infections, and an increase in exhaustion during feedings. There is a characteristic murmur. The other defects do not have leftto-right shunting

When caring for the child with Kawasaki disease, what should the nurse know to provide safe and effective care? a. Aspirin is contraindicated. b. The principal area of involvement is the joints. c. The childs fever is usually responsive to antibiotics within 48 hours. d. Therapeutic management includes administration of gamma globulin and salicylates.

ANS: D High-dose intravenous gamma globulin and salicylate therapy are indicated to reduce the incidence of coronary artery abnormalities when given within the first 10 days of the illness. Aspirin is part of the therapy. Mucous membranes, conjunctiva, changes in the extremities, and cardiac involvement are seen. The fever of Kawasaki disease is unresponsive to antibiotics. It is responsive to anti-inflammatory doses of aspirin and antipyretics.

The physician suggests that surgery be performed for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) to prevent which complication? a. Hypoxemia b. Right-to-left shunt of blood c. Decreased workload on the left side of the heart d. Pulmonary vascular congestion

ANS: D In PDA, blood flows from the higher pressure aorta into the lower pressure pulmonary vein, resulting in increased pulmonary blood flow. This creates pulmonary vascular congestion. Hypoxemia usually results from defects with mixed blood flow and decreased pulmonary blood flow. The shunt is from left to right in a PDA. The closure would stop this. There is increased workload on the left side of the heart with a PDA.

A 23-month-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of meningitis. She is lethargic and very irritable with a temperature of 102 F. What should the nurses care plan include? a. Observing the childs voluntary movement b. Checking the Babinski reflex every 4 hours c. Checking the Brudzinski reflex every 1 hour d. Assessing the level of consciousness (LOC) and vital signs every 2 hours

ANS: D Observation of vital signs, neurologic signs, LOC, urinary output, and other pertinent data is carried out at frequent intervals on a child with meningitis. The nurse should avoid actions that cause pain or increase discomfort, such as lifting the childs head, so the Brudzinski reflex should not be checked hourly. Checking the Babinski reflex or childs voluntary movements will not help with assessing the childs status.

Parents are considering treatment options for their 5-year-old child with Legg-Calv-Perthes disease. Both surgical and conservative therapies are appropriate. They are able to verbalize the differences between the therapies when they make what statement? a. All therapies require extended periods of bed rest. b. Conservative therapy will be required until puberty. c. Our child cannot attend school during the treatment phase. d. Surgical correction requires a 3- to 4-month recovery period

ANS: D Surgical correction involves additional risks of anesthesia, infection, and possibly blood transfusion. The recovery period is only 3 to 4 months rather than the 2 to 4 years of conservative therapies. The use of nonweight-bearing appliances and surgical intervention does not require prolonged bed rest. Conservative therapy is indicated for 2 to 4 years. The child is encouraged to attend school and engage in activities that can be adapted to therapeutic appliances

A 3-month-old infant has a hypercyanotic spell. What should be the nurses first action? a. Assess for neurologic defects. b. Prepare the family for imminent death. c. Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation. d. Place the child in the kneechest position.

ANS: D The first action is to place the infant in the kneechest position. Blow-by oxygen may be indicated. Neurologic defects are unlikely. Preparing the family for imminent death or beginning cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be unnecessary. The child is assessed for airway, breathing, and circulation. Often, calming the child and administering oxygen and morphine can alleviate the hypercyanotic spell.

What is a major goal of therapy for children with cerebral palsy (CP)? a. Cure the underlying defect causing the disorder. b. Reverse the degenerative processes that have occurred. c. Prevent the spread to individuals in close contact with the child. d. Recognize the disorder early and promote optimum development.

ANS: D The goals of therapy include early recognition and promotion of an optimum developmental course to enable affected children to attain their potential within the limits of their dysfunction. The disorder is permanent, and therapy is chiefly symptomatic and preventive. It is not possible at this time to reverse the degenerative processes. CP is not contagious.

The nurse is closely monitoring a child who is unconscious after a fall and notices that the child suddenly has a fixed and dilated pupil. How should the nurse interpret this? a. Eye trauma b. Brain death c. Severe brainstem damage d. Neurosurgical emergency

ANS: D The sudden appearance of a fixed and dilated pupil(s) is a neurosurgical emergency. The nurse should immediately report this finding. Although a dilated pupil may be associated with eye trauma, this child has experienced a neurologic insult. One fixed and dilated pupil is not suggestive of brain death. Pinpoint pupils or fixed, bilateral pupils for more than 5 minutes are indicative of brainstem damage. The unilateral fixed and dilated pupil is suggestive of damage on the same side of the brain.

6. The nurse is caring for an immobilized preschool child. What intervention is helpful during this period of immobilization? a. Encourage wearing pajamas. b. Let the child have few behavioral limitations. c. Keep the child away from other immobilized children if possible. d. Take the child for a walk by wagon outside the room.

ANS: D Transporting the child outside of the room by stretcher, wheelchair, or wagon increases environmental stimuli and provides social contact. Street clothes are preferred for hospitalized children. This decreases the sense of illness and disability. The child needs appropriate limits for both adherence to the medical regimen and developmental concerns. It is not necessary to keep the child away from other immobilized children.

Bacterial infective endocarditis (IE) should be treated with which protocol? a. Oral antibiotics for 6 months b. Oral antibiotics (penicillin) for 10 full days c. IV antibiotics, diuretics, and digoxin d. IV antibiotics (penicillin type) for 2 to 8 weeks

ANS: D Treatment for IE includes the administration of high-dose antibiotics given intravenously for 2 to 8 weeks to completely eradicate the infecting microorganism.

What is a nursing intervention to reduce the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP) in an unconscious child? a. Suction the child frequently. b. Turn the childs head side to side every hour. c. Provide environmental stimulation. d. Avoid activities that cause pain or crying

ANS: D Unrelieved pain, crying, and emotional stress all contribute to increasing the ICP. Disturbing procedures should be carried out at the same time as therapies that reduce ICP, such as sedation. Suctioning is poorly tolerated by children. When necessary, it is preceded by hyperventilation with 100% oxygen. Turning the head side to side is contraindicated for fear of compressing the jugular vein. This would block the flow of blood from the brain, raising ICP. Nontherapeutic touch and environmental stimulation increase ICP. Minimizing both touch and environmental stimuli noise reduces ICP

The nurse is caring for a school-age girl who has had a cardiac catheterization. The child tells the nurse that her bandage is too wet. The nurse finds the bandage and bed soaked with blood. What nursing action is most appropriate to institute initially? a. Notify the physician. b. Place the child in Trendelenburg position. c. Apply a new bandage with more pressure. d. Apply direct pressure above the catheterization site.

ANS: D When bleeding occurs, direct continuous pressure is applied 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the percutaneous skin site to localize pressure on the vessel puncture. The physician can be notified, and a new bandage with more pressure can be applied after pressure is applied. The nurse can have someone else notify the physician while the pressure is being maintained. Trendelenburg positioning would not be a helpful intervention. It would increase the drainage from the lower extremities.