Unit VI Pediatric Nursing (3)
The nurse is caring for a child diagnosed with erythemia infectiosum (fifth disease). Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect to note in the child? 1. An intense fiery red edematous rash on the cheeks 2. Pinkish-rose maculopapular rash on the face, neck, and scalp 3. Reddish and pinpoint petechiae spots found on the soft palate 4. Small bluish-white spots with a red base found on the buccal mucosa
Answer: 1 Rationale: Fifth disease is characterized by the presence of an intense fiery red edematous rash on the cheeks, which gives an appearance that the child has been slapped. Options 2 and 3 are manifestations related to rubella (German measles). Koplik's spots (option 4) are found in rubeola (measles).
The nurse is performing an assessment on a child admitted to the hospital with a probable diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. Which assessment findings should the nurse expect to observe? Select all that apply. 1. Pallor 2. Edema 3. Anorexia 4. Proteinuria 5. Weight loss 6. Decreased serum lipids
Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4 Rationale: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema, elevated serum lipids, anorexia, and pallor. The child gains weight.
The nurse performing an admission assessment on a 2-year-old child who has been diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome notes that which most common characteristic is associated with this syndrome? 1. Hypertension 2. Generalized edema 3. Increased urinary output 4. Frank, bright red blood in the urine
Answer: 2 Rationale: Nephrotic syndrome is defined as massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipemia, and edema. Other manifestations include weight gain; periorbital and facial edema that is most prominent in the morning; leg, ankle, labial, or scrotal edema; decreased urine output and urine that is dark and frothy; abdominal swelling; and blood pressure that is normal or slightly decreased.
The nurse is reviewing the record of a child with increased intracranial pressure and notes that the child has exhibited signs of decerebrate posturing. On assessment of the child, the nurse expects to note which characteristic of this type of posturing? 1. Flaccid paralysis of all extremities 2. Adduction of the arms at the shoulders 3. Rigid extension and pronation of the arms and legs 4. Abnormal flexion of the upper extremities and extension and adduction of the lower extremities
Answer: 3 Rationale: Decerebrate (extension) posturing is characterized by the rigid extension and pronation of the arms and legs. Option 1 is incorrect. Options 2 and 4 describe decorticate (flexion) posturing.
The nurse collects a urine specimen preoperatively from a child with epispadias who is scheduled for surgical repair. When analyzing the results of the urinalysis, which should the nurse most likely expect to note? 1. Hematuria 2. Proteinuria 3. Bacteriuria 4. Glucosuria
Answer: 3 Rationale: Epispadias is a congenital defect involving abnormal placement of the urethral orifice of the penis. The urethral opening is located anywhere on the dorsum of the penis. This anatomical characteristic facilitates entry of bacteria into the urine. Options 1, 2, and 4 are not characteristically noted in this condition.
A 6-year-old child with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has been admitted to the hospital for pain management. The child asks the nurse if the pain will ever go away. The nurse should make which best response to the child? 1. "The pain will go away if you lie still and let the medicine work." 2. "Try not to think about it. The more you think it hurts, the more it will hurt." 3. "I know it must hurt, but if you tell me when it does, I will try to make it hurt a little less." 4. "Every time it hurts, press on the call button and I will give you something to make the pain go all away."
Answer: 3 Rationale: The multiple complications associated with HIV are accompanied by a high level of pain. Aggressive pain management is essential for the child to have an acceptable quality of life. The nurse must acknowledge the child's pain and let the child know that everything will be done to decrease the pain. Telling the child that movement or lack thereof would eliminate the pain is inaccurate. Allowing a child to think that he or she can control the pain simply by thinking or not thinking about it oversimplifies the pain cycle associated with HIV. Giving false hope by telling the child that the pain will be taken "all away" is neither truthful nor realistic.
A pediatrician's prescription reads "ampicillin sodium 125 mg IV every 6 hours." The medication label reads "when reconstituted with 7.4 mL of bacteriostatic water, the final concentration is 1 g/7.4 mL." The nurse prepares to draw up how many milliliters to administer 1 dose? 1. 1.1 mL 2. 0.54 mL 3. 7.425 mL 4. 0.925 mL
Answer: 4
An infant of a mother infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is seen in the clinic each month and is being monitored for symptoms indicative of HIV infection. With knowledge of the most common opportunistic infection of children infected with HIV, the nurse assesses the infant for which sign? 1. Cough 2. Liver failure 3. Watery stool 4. Nuchal rigidity
Answer: 1 Rationale: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a disorder caused by HIV and characterized by generalized dysfunction of the immune system. The most common opportunistic infection of children infected with HIV is Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, which occurs most frequently between the ages of 3 and 6 months, when HIV status may be indeterminate. Cough is a common sign of this opportunistic infection. Cytomegalovirus infection is also characteristic of HIV infection; however, it is not the most common opportunistic infection. Liver failure is a common sign of this complication. Although gastrointestinal disturbances and neurological abnormalities may occur in a child with HIV infection, options 3 and 4 are not specific opportunistic infections noted in the HIV-infected child. Watery stool is noted with gastroenteritis, and nuchal rigidity is seen in meningitis.
The home care nurse provides instructions regarding basic infection control to the parent of an infant with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Which statement, if made by the parent, indicates the need for further instruction? 1. "I will clean up any spills from the diaper with diluted alcohol." 2. "I will wash baby bottles, nipples, and pacifiers in the dishwasher." 3. "I will be sure to prepare foods that are high in calories and high in protein." 4. "I will be sure to wash my hands carefully before and after caring for my infant."
Answer: 1 Rationale: HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk. The mother of an infant with HIV should be instructed to use a bleach solution for disinfecting contaminated objects or cleaning up spills from the child's diaper. Alcohol would not be effective in destroying the virus. Options 2, 3, and 4 are accurate instructions related to basic infection control.
The nurse is planning care for a child with hemolytic-uremic syndrome who has been anuric and will be receiving peritoneal dialysis treatment. The nurse should plan to implement which measure? 1. Restrict fluids as prescribed. 2. Care for the arteriovenous fistula. 3. Encourage foods high in potassium. 4. Administer analgesics as prescribed.
Answer: 1 Rationale: Hemolytic-uremic syndrome is thought to be associated with bacterial toxins, chemicals, and viruses that result in acute kidney injury in children. Clinical manifestations of the disease include acquired hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, renal injury, and central nervous system symptoms. A child with hemolytic-uremic syndrome undergoing peritoneal dialysis because of anuria would be on fluid restriction. Pain is not associated with hemolytic-uremic syndrome, and potassium would be restricted, not encouraged, if the child is anuric. Peritoneal dialysis does not require an arteriovenous fistula (only hemodialysis).
A 1-month-old infant is seen in a clinic and is diagnosed with developmental dysplasia of the hip. On assessment, the nurse understands that which finding should be noted in this condition? 1. Limited range of motion in the affected hip 2. An apparent lengthened femur on the affected side 3. Asymmetrical adduction of the affected hip when the infant is placed supine with the knees and hips flexed 4. Symmetry of the gluteal skinfolds when the infant is placed prone and the legs are extended against the examining table
Answer: 1 Rationale: In developmental dysplasia of the hip, the head of the femur is seated improperly in the acetabulum or hip socket of the pelvis. Asymmetrical and restricted abduction of the affected hip, when the child is placed supine with the knees and hips flexed, would be an assessment finding in developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants beyond the newborn period. Other findings include an apparent short femur on the affected side, asymmetry of the gluteal skinfolds, and limited range of motion in the affected extremity.
The nurse notes documentation that a child is exhibiting an inability to flex the leg when the thigh is flexed anteriorly at the hip. Which condition does the nurse suspect? 1. Meningitis 2. Spinal cord injury 3. Intracranial bleeding 4. Decreased cerebral blood flow
Answer: 1 Rationale: Meningitis is an infectious process of the central nervous system caused by bacteria and viruses. The inability to extend the leg when the thigh is flexed anteriorly at the hip is a positive Kernig's sign, noted in meningitis. Kernig's sign is not seen specifically with spinal cord injury, intracranial bleeding, or decreased cerebral blood flow.
Which home care instructions should the nurse provide to the parent of a child with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)? Select all that apply. 1. Monitor the child's weight. 2. Frequent hand washing is important. 3. The child should avoid exposure to other illnesses. 4. The child's immunization schedule will need revision. 5. Clean up body fluid spills with bleach solution (10:1 ratio of water to bleach). 6. Fever, malaise, fatigue, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea are expected to occur and do not require special intervention.
Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5 Rationale: AIDS is a disorder caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and is characterized by a generalized dysfunction of the immune system. Home care instructions include the following: frequent hand washing; monitoring for fever, malaise, fatigue, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea and notifying the pediatrician if these occur; monitoring for signs and symptoms of opportunistic infections; administering antiretroviral medications and other medications as prescribed; avoiding exposure to other illnesses; keeping immunizations up to date; monitoring weight and providing a high-calorie, high-protein diet; washing eating utensils in the dishwasher; and avoiding sharing eating utensils. Gloves are worn for care, especially when in contact with body fluids and changing diapers; diapers are changed frequently and away from food areas, and soiled disposable diapers are folded inward, closed with the tabs, and disposed of in a tightly covered plastic- lined container. Any body fluid spills are cleaned with a bleach solution (10:1 ratio of water to bleach).
The nurse is creating a plan of care for a child who is at risk for seizures. Which interventions apply if the child has a seizure? Select all that apply. 1. Time the seizure. 2. Restrain the child. 3. Stay with the child. 4. Place the child in a prone position. 5. Move furniture away from the child. 6. Insert a padded tongue blade in the child's mouth.
Answer: 1, 3, 5 Rationale: A seizure is a disorder that occurs as a result of excessive and unorganized neuronal discharges in the brain that activate associated motor and sensory organs. During a seizure, the child is placed on her or his side in a lateral position. Positioning on the side prevents aspiration, because saliva drains out the corner of the child's mouth. The child is not restrained because this could cause injury to the child. The nurse would loosen clothing around the child's neck and ensure a patent airway. Nothing is placed into the child's mouth during a seizure, because this action may cause injury to the child's mouth, gums, or teeth. The nurse would stay with the child to reduce the risk of injury and allow for observation and timing of the seizure.
The nurse reviews the record of a child who is suspected to have glomerulonephritis. Which statement by the child's parent should the nurse expect that is associated with this diagnosis? 1. "His pediatrician said his kidneys are working well." 2. "I noticed his urine was the color of cola lately." 3. "I'm so glad they didn't find any protein in his urine." 4. "The nurse who admitted my child said his blood pressure was low."
Answer: 2 Rationale: Glomerulonephritis refers to a group of kidney disorders characterized by inflammatory injury in the glomerulus. Gross hematuria, resulting in dark, smoky, cola-colored or brown-colored urine, is a classic symptom of glomerulonephritis. Blood urea nitrogen levels and serum creatinine levels may be elevated, indicating that kidney function is compromised. A mild to moderate elevation in protein in the urine is associated with glomerulonephritis. Hypertension is also common because of fluid volume overload secondary to the kidneys not working properly.
An infant with a diagnosis of hydrocephalus is scheduled for surgery. Which is the priority nursing intervention in the preoperative period? 1. Test the urine for protein. 2. Reposition the infant frequently. 3. Provide a stimulating environment. 4. Assess blood pressure every 15 minutes.
Answer: 2 Rationale: Hydrocephalus occurs as a result of an imbalance of cerebrospinal fluid absorption or production that is caused by malformations, tumors, hemorrhage, infections, or trauma. It results in head enlargement and increased intracranial pressure (ICP). In infants with hydrocephalus, the head grows at an abnormal rate, and if the infant is not repositioned frequently, pressure ulcers can occur on the back and side of the head. An egg crate mattress under the head is also a nursing intervention that can help prevent skin breakdown. Proteinuria is not specific to hydrocephalus. Stimulus should be kept at a minimum because of the increase in ICP. It is not necessary to check the blood pressure every 15 minutes.
The clinic nurse is instructing the parent of a child with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection regarding immunizations. The nurse should provide which instruction to the parent? 1. The hepatitis B vaccine will not be given to the child. 2. The inactivated influenza vaccine will be given yearly. 3. The varicella vaccine will be given before 6 months of age. 4. A Western blot test needs to be performed and the results evaluated before immunizations.
Answer: 2 Rationale: Immunizations against common childhood illnesses are recommended for all children exposed to or infected with HIV. The inactivated influenza vaccine that is given intramuscularly will be administered (influenza vaccine should be given yearly). The hepatitis B vaccine is administered according to the recommended immunization schedule. Varicella-zoster virus vaccine should not be given, because it is a live virus vaccine; varicella-zoster immunoglobulin may be prescribed after chickenpox exposure. Option 4 is unnecessary and inaccurate.
The nurse is caring for an infant with a diagnosis of bladder exstrophy. To protect the exposed bladder tissue, the nurse should plan which intervention? 1. Cover the bladder with petroleum jelly gauze. 2. Cover the bladder with a nonadhering plastic wrap. 3. Apply sterile distilled water dressings over the bladder mucosa. 4. Keep the bladder tissue dry by covering it with dry sterile gauze.
Answer: 2 Rationale: In bladder exstrophy, the bladder is exposed and external to the body. In this disorder, one must take care to protect the exposed bladder tissue from drying, while allowing the drainage of urine. This is accomplished best by covering the bladder with a nonadhering plastic wrap. The use of petroleum jelly gauze should be avoided, because this type of dressing can dry out, adhere to the mucosa, and damage the delicate tissue when removed. Dry sterile dressings and dressings soaked in solutions (that can dry out) also damage the mucosa when removed.
A 4-year-old child sustains a fall at home. After an x-ray examination, the child is determined to have a fractured arm and a plaster cast is applied. The nurse provides instructions to the parents regarding care for the child's cast. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further instruction? 1. "The cast may feel warm as the cast dries." 2. "I can use lotion or powder around the cast edges to relieve itching." 3. "A small amount of white shoe polish can touch up a soiled white cast." 4. "If the cast becomes wet, a blow drier set on the cool setting may be used to dry the cast."
Answer: 2 Rationale: Teaching about cast care is essential to prevent complications from the cast. The parents need to be instructed not to use lotion or powders on the skin around the cast edges or inside the cast. Lotions or powders can become sticky or caked and cause skin irritation. Options 1, 3, and 4 are appropriate statements and indicate the parents understand cast care.
The nurse prepares a list of home care instructions for the parents of a child who has a plaster cast applied to the left forearm. Which instructions should be included on the list? Select all that apply. 1. Use the fingertips to lift the cast while it is drying. 2. Keep small toys and sharp objects away from the cast. 3. Use a padded ruler or another padded object to scratch the skin under the cast if it itches. 4. Place a heating pad on the lower end of the cast and over the fingers if the fingers feel cold. 5. Elevate the extremity on pillows for the first 24 to 48 hours after casting to prevent swelling. 6. Contact the primary health care provider (PHCP) if the child complains of numbness or tingling in the extremity.
Answer: 2, 5, 6 Rationale: While the cast is drying, the palms of the hands are used to lift the cast. If the fingertips are used, indentations in the cast could occur and cause constant pressure on the underlying skin. Small toys and sharp objects are kept away from the cast, and no objects (including padded objects) are placed inside the cast because of the risk of altered skin integrity. The extremity is elevated to prevent swelling, and the PHCP is notified immediately if any signs of neurovascular impairment develop. A heating pad is not applied to the cast or fingers. Cold fingers could indicate neurovascular impairment, and the PHCP should be notified.
A pediatric client with ventricular septal defect repair is placed on a maintenance dosage of digoxin. The dosage is 8 mcg/kg/day, and the client's weight is 7.2 kg. The pediatrician prescribes the digoxin to be given twice daily. The nurse prepares how many mcg of digoxin to administer to the child at each dose? 1. 12.6 mcg 2. 21.4 mcg 3. 28.8 mcg 4. 32.2 mcg
Answer: 3
Sulfisoxazole, 1 g orally twice daily, is prescribed for an adolescent with a urinary tract infection. The medication label reads "500-mg tablets." The nurse has determined that the dosage prescribed is safe. The nurse administers how many tablets per dose to the adolescent? 1. 1⁄2 tablet 2. 1 tablet 3. 2 tablets 4. 3 tablets
Answer: 3
The nurse is assigned to care for an 8-year-old child with a diagnosis of a basilar skull fracture. The nurse reviews the pediatrician's prescriptions and should contact the pediatrician to question which prescription? 1. Obtain daily weight. 2. Provide clear liquid intake. 3. Nasotracheal suction as needed. 4. Maintain a patent intravenous line.
Answer: 3 Rationale: A basilar skull fracture is a type of head injury. Nasotracheal suctioning is contraindicated in a child with a basilar skull fracture. Because of the nature of the injury, there is a possibility that the catheter will enter the brain through the fracture, creating a high risk of secondary infection. Fluid balance is monitored closely by daily weight determination, intake and output measurement, and serum osmolality determination to detect early signs of water retention, excessive dehydration, and states of hypertonicity or hypotonicity. The child is maintained on NPO (nothing by mouth) status or restricted to clear liquids until it is determined that vomiting will not occur. An intravenous line is maintained to administer fluids or medications, if necessary.
The nurse is providing instructions to the parents of a child with scoliosis regarding the use of a brace. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further instruction? 1. "I will encourage my child to perform prescribed exercises." 2. "I will have my child wear soft fabric clothing under the brace." 3. "I should apply lotion under the brace to prevent skin breakdown." 4. "I should avoid the use of powder because it will cake under the brace."
Answer: 3 Rationale: A brace may be prescribed to treat scoliosis. Braces are not curative but may slow the progression of the curvature to allow skeletal growth and maturity. The use of lotions or powders under a brace should be avoided because they can become sticky and cake under the brace, causing irritation. Options 1, 2, and 4 are appropriate interventions in the care of a child with a brace.
The parents of a child recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy ask the nurse about the limitations of the disorder. The nurse responds by explaining that the limitations occur as a result of which pathophysiological process? 1. An infectious disease of the central nervous system 2. An inflammation of the brain as a result of a viral illness 3. A chronic disability characterized by impaired muscle movement and posture 4. A congenital condition that results in moderate to severe intellectual disabilities
Answer: 3 Rationale: Cerebral palsy is a chronic disability characterized by impaired movement and posture resulting from an abnormality in the extrapyramidal or pyramidal motor system. Meningitis is an infectious process of the central nervous system. Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that occurs as a result of viral illness or central nervous system infection. Down's syndrome is an example of a congenital condition that results in moderate to severe intellectual disabilities.
Parents bring their 2-week-old infant to a clinic for treatment after a diagnosis of clubfoot made at birth. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further teaching regarding this disorder? 1. "Treatment needs to be started as soon as possible." 2. "I realize my infant will require follow-up care until fully grown." 3. "I need to bring my infant back to the clinic in 1 month for a new cast." 4. "I need to come to the clinic every week with my infant for the casting."
Answer: 3 Rationale: Clubfoot is a complex deformity of the ankle and foot that includes forefoot adduction, midfoot supination, hindfoot varus, and ankle equinus; the defect may be unilateral or bilateral. Treatment for clubfoot is started as soon as possible after birth. Serial manipulation and casting are performed at least weekly. If sufficient correction is not achieved in 3 to 6 months, surgery usually is indicated. Because clubfoot can recur, all children with clubfoot require long-term interval follow-up until they reach skeletal maturity to ensure an optimal outcome.
The nurse is assisting a primary health care provider (PHCP) examine a 3-week-old infant with developmental dysplasia of the hip. What test or sign should the nurse expect the PHCP to assess? 1. Babinski's sign 2. The Moro reflex 3. Ortolani's maneuver 4. The palmar-plantar grasp
Answer: 3 Rationale: In developmental dysplasia of the hip, the head of the femur is seated improperly in the acetabulum or hip socket of the pelvis. Ortolani's maneuver is a test to assess for hip instability and can be done only before 4 weeks of age. The examiner abducts the thigh and applies gentle pressure forward over the greater trochanter. A "clicking" sensation indicates a dislocated femoral head moving into the acetabulum. Babinski's sign is abnormal in anyone older than 2 years of age and indicates central nervous system abnormality. The Moro reflex is normally present at birth but is absent by 6 months; if still present at 6 months, there is an indication of neurological abnormality. The palmar-plantar grasp is present at birth and lessens within 8 months.
The parents of a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis call the clinic nurse because the child is experiencing a painful exacerbation of the disease. The parents ask the nurse if the child can perform range-of-motion exercises at this time. The nurse should make which response? 1. "Avoid all exercise during painful periods." 2. "Range-of-motion exercises must be performed every day." 3. "Have the child perform simple isometric exercises during this time." 4. "Administer additional pain medication before performing range-of-motion exercises."
Answer: 3 Rationale: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting the joints and other tissues, such as articular cartilage. During painful episodes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, hot or cold packs and splinting and positioning the affected joint in a neutral position help reduce the pain. Although resting the extremity is appropriate, beginning simple isometric or tensing exercises as soon as the child is able is important. These exercises do not involve joint movement.
A lumbar puncture is performed on a child suspected to have bacterial meningitis, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is obtained for analysis. The nurse reviews the results of the CSF analysis and determines that which results would verify the diagnosis? 1. Clear CSF, decreased pressure, and elevated protein level 2. Clear CSF, elevated protein, and decreased glucose levels 3. Cloudy CSF, elevated protein, and decreased glucose levels 4. Cloudy CSF, decreased protein, and decreased glucose levels
Answer: 3 Rationale: Meningitis is an infectious process of the central nervous system caused by bacteria and viruses; it may be acquired as a primary disease or as a result of complications of neurosurgery, trauma, infection of the sinus or ears, or systemic infections. Meningitis is diagnosed by testing CSF obtained by lumbar puncture. In the case of bacterial meningitis, findings usually include an elevated pressure; turbid or cloudy CSF; and elevated leukocyte, elevated protein, and decreased glucose levels.
A mother of a child with mumps calls the health care clinic to tell the nurse that the child has been lethargic and vomiting. What instruction should the nurse give to the mother? 1. To continue to monitor the child 2. That lethargy and vomiting are normal with mumps 3. To bring the child to the clinic to be seen by the pediatrician 4. That, as long as there is no fever, there is nothing to be concerned about
Answer: 3 Rationale: Mumps generally affects the salivary glands, but it can also affect multiple organs. The most common complication is septic meningitis, with the virus being identified in the cerebrospinal fluid. Common signs include nuchal rigidity, lethargy, and vomiting. The child should be seen by the pediatrician.
The nurse is assessing a child admitted with a diagnosis of rheumatic fever. Which significant question should the nurse ask the child's parent during the assessment? 1. "Has your child had difficulty urinating?" 2. "Has your child been exposed to anyone with chickenpox?" 3. "Has any family member had a sore throat within the past few weeks?" 4. "Has any family member had a gastrointestinal disorder in the past few weeks?"
Answer: 3 Rationale: Rheumatic fever characteristically presents 2 to 6 weeks after an untreated or partially treated group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection of the respiratory tract. Initially the nurse determines whether any family member has had a sore throat or unexplained fever within the past few weeks. The remaining options are unrelated to the assessment findings of rheumatic fever.
The nurse is providing medication instructions to a parent. Which statement by the parent indicates a need for further instruction? 1. "I should cuddle my child after giving the medication." 2. "I can give my child a frozen juice bar after he swallows the medication." 3. "I should mix the medication in the baby food and give it when I feed my child." 4. "If my child does not like the taste of the medicine, I should encourage him to pinch his nose and drink the medication through a straw."
Answer: 3 Rationale: The nurse would teach the parent to avoid putting medications in foods because it may give an unpleasant taste to the food, and the child may refuse to accept the same food in the future. In addition, the child may not consume the entire serving and would not receive the required medication dosage. The mother should provide comfort measures immediately after medication administration, such as touching, holding, cuddling, and providing a favorite toy. The mother should offer juice, a soft drink, or a frozen juice bar to the child after the child swallows the medication. If the taste of the medication is unpleasant, the child should pinch the nose and drink the medication through a straw.
Penicillin G procaine, 1,000,000 units IM (intramuscularly), is prescribed for an adolescent with an infection. The medication label reads "1,200,000 units per 2 mL." The nurse has determined that the dose prescribed is safe. The nurse administers how many milliliters per dose to the adolescent? Round answer to the nearest tenth position. 1. 0.8 mL 2. 1.2 mL 3. 1.4 mL 4. 1.7 mL
Answer: 4
The nurse creates a plan of care for a child at risk for tonic-clonic seizures. In the plan of care, the nurse identifies seizure precautions and documents that which item(s) need to be placed at the child's bedside? 1. Emergency cart 2. Tracheotomy set 3. Padded tongue blade 4. Suctioning equipment and oxygen
Answer: 4 Rationale: A seizure results from the excessive and unorganized neuronal discharges in the brain that activate associated motor and sensory organs. A type of generalized seizure is a tonic-clonic seizure. This type of seizure causes rigidity of all body muscles, followed by intense jerking movements. Because increased oral secretions and apnea can occur during and after the seizure, oxygen and suctioning equipment are placed at the bedside. A tracheotomy is not performed during a seizure. No object, including a padded tongue blade, is placed into the child's mouth during a seizure. An emergency cart would not be left at the bedside but would be available in the treatment room or nearby on the nursing unit.
The nurse provides home care instructions to the parent of a child with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Which statement by the parent indicates the need for further teaching? 1. "I will wash my hands frequently." 2. "I will keep my child's immunizations up to date." 3. "I will avoid direct unprotected contact with my child's body fluids." 4. "I can send my child to day care if he has a fever, as long as it is a low-grade fever."
Answer: 4 Rationale: AIDS is a disorder caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and characterized by generalized dysfunction of the immune system. A child with AIDS who is sick or has a fever should be kept home and not brought to a day care center. Options 1, 2, and 3 are correct statements and would be actions a caregiver should take when the child has AIDS.
The mother with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection brings her 10-month-old infant to the clinic for a routine checkup. The pediatrician has documented that the infant is asymptomatic for HIV infection. After the checkup, the mother tells the nurse that she is so pleased that the infant will not get HIV infection. The nurse should make which most appropriate response to the mother? 1. "I am so pleased also that everything has turned out fine." 2. "Because symptoms have not developed, it is unlikely that your infant will develop HIV infection." 3. "Everything looks great, but be sure to return with your infant next month for the scheduled visit." 4. "Most children infected with HIV develop symptoms within the first 9 months of life, and some become symptomatic sometime before they are 3 years old."
Answer: 4 Rationale: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is caused by HIV infection and characterized by generalized dysfunction of the immune system. Most children infected with HIV develop symptoms within the first 9 months of life. The remaining infected children become symptomatic sometime before age 3 years. With their immature immune systems, children have a much shorter incubation period than adults. Options 1, 2, and 3 are incorrect. Additionally, these options offer false reassurance.
A child has a right femur fracture caused by a motor vehicle crash and is placed in skin traction temporarily until surgery can be performed. During assessment, the nurse notes that the dorsalis pedis pulse is absent on the right foot. Which action should the nurse take? 1. Administer an analgesic. 2. Release the skin traction. 3. Apply ice to the extremity. 4. Notify the primary health care provider (PHCP).
Answer: 4 Rationale: An absent pulse to an extremity of the affected limb after a bone fracture could mean that the child is developing or experiencing compartment syndrome. This is an emergency situation, and the PHCP needs to be notified immediately. Administering analgesics would not improve circulation. The skin traction should not be released without a PHCP's prescription. Applying ice to an extremity with absent perfusion will worsen the problem. Ice may be prescribed when perfusion is adequate to decrease swelling.
The nurse provided discharge instructions to the parents of a 2-year-oldchild who had an orchiopexy to correct cryptorchidism. Which statement by the parents indicates the need for further instruction? 1. "I'll check his temperature." 2. "I'll give him medication so he'll be comfortable." 3. "I'll check his voiding to be sure there's no problem." 4. "I'll let him decide when to return to his play activities."
Answer: 4 Rationale: Cryptorchidism is a condition in which 1 or both testes fail to descend through the inguinal canal into the scrotal sac. Surgical correction may be necessary. All vigorous activities should be restricted for 2 weeks after surgery to promote healing and prevent injury. This prevents dislodging of the suture, which is internal. Normally, 2-year-olds want to be active; allowing the child to decide when to return to his play activities may prevent healing and cause injury. The parents should be taught to monitor the temperature, provide analgesics as needed, and monitor the urine output.
Which question should the nurse ask the parents of a child suspected of having glomerulonephritis? 1. "Did your child fall off a bike onto the handlebars?" 2. "Has the child had persistent nausea and vomiting?" 3. "Has the child been itching or had a rash anytime in the last week?" 4. "Has the child had a sore throat or a throat infection in the last few weeks?"
Answer: 4 Rationale: Glomerulonephritis refers to a group of kidney disorders characterized by inflammatory injury in the glomerulus. Group A β-hemolytic streptococcal infection is a cause of glomerulonephritis. Often, a child becomes ill with streptococcal infection of the upper respiratory tract and then develops symptoms of acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis after an interval of 1 to 2 weeks. The assessment data in options 1, 2, and 3 are unrelated to a diagnosis of glomerulonephritis.
A mother arrives at the emergency department with her 5-year-old child and states that the child fell off a bunk bed. A head injury is suspected. The nurse checks the child's airway status and assesses the child for early and late signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which is a late sign of increased ICP? 1. Nausea 2. Irritability 3. Headache 4. Bradycardia
Answer: 4 Rationale: Head injury is the pathological result of any mechanical force to the skull, scalp, meninges, or brain. A head injury can cause bleeding in the brain and result in increased ICP. In a child, early signs include a slight change in level of consciousness, headache, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances (diplopia), and seizures. Late signs of increased ICP include a significant decrease in level of consciousness, bradycardia, decreased motor and sensory responses, alterations in pupil size and reactivity, posturing, Cheyne-Stokes respirations, and coma.
The nurse is reviewing a treatment plan with the parents of a newborn with hypospadias. Which statement by the parents indicates their understanding of the plan? 1. "Caution should be used when straddling my infant on a hip." 2. "Vital signs should be taken daily to check for bladder infection." 3. "Catheterization will be necessary when my infant does not void." 4. "Circumcision has been delayed to save tissue for surgical repair."
Answer: 4 Rationale: Hypospadias is a congenital defect involving abnormal placement of the urethral orifice of the penis. In hypospadias, the urethral orifice is located below the glans penis along the ventral surface. The infant should not be circumcised, because the dorsal foreskin tissue will be used for surgical repair of the hypospadias. Options 1, 2, and 3 are unrelated to this disorder.
The nurse caring for a child diagnosed with rubeola (measles) notes that the pediatrician has documented the presence of Koplik's spots. On the basis of this documentation, which observation is expected? 1. Pinpoint petechiae noted on both legs 2. Whitish vesicles located across the chest 3. Petechiae spots that are reddish and pinpoint on the soft palate 4. Small, blue-white spots with a red base found on the buccal mucosa
Answer: 4 Rationale: In rubeola (measles), Koplik's spots appear approximately 2 days before the appearance of the rash. These are small, blue-white spots with a red base that are found on the buccal mucosa. The spots last approximately 3 days, after which time they slough off. Based on this information, the remaining options are all incorrect.
A pediatrician prescribes laboratory studies for an infant of a woman positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The nurse anticipates that which laboratory study will be prescribed for the infant? 1. Chest x-ray 2. Western blot 3. CD4+ cell count 4. p24 antigen assay
Answer: 4 Rationale: Infants born to HIV-infected mothers need to be screened for the HIV antigen. The detection of HIV in infants is confirmed by a p24 antigen assay, virus culture of HIV, or polymerase chain reaction. A Western blot test confirms the presence of HIV antibodies. The CD4+ cell count indicates how well the immune system is working. A chest x-ray evaluates the presence of other manifestations of HIV infection, such as pneumonia.
The nurse prepares to administer an intramuscular injection to a 4-month-old infant. The nurse selects which best site to administer the injection? 1. Ventrogluteal 2. Lateral deltoid 3. Rectus femoris 4. Vastus lateralis
Answer: 4 Rationale: Intramuscular injection sites are selected on the basis of the child's age and muscle development of the child. The vastus lateralis is the only safe muscle group to use for intramuscular injection in a 4-month-old infant. The sites identified in options 1, 2, and 3 are unsafe for a child of this age.
The nurse is planning care for a child with acute bacterial meningitis. Based on the mode of transmission of this infection, which precautionary intervention should be included in the plan of care? 1. Maintain enteric precautions. 2. Maintain neutropenic precautions. 3. No precautions are required as long as antibiotics have been started. 4. Maintain respiratory isolation precautions for at least 24 hours after the initiation of antibiotics.
Answer: 4 Rationale: Meningitis is an infectious process of the central nervous system caused by bacteria and viruses; it may be acquired as a primary disease or as a result of complications of neurosurgery, trauma, infection of the sinus or ears, or systemic infections. A major priority of nursing care for a child suspected to have meningitis is to administer the prescribed antibiotic as soon as a culture is obtained. The child also is placed on respiratory isolation precautions for at least 24 hours while culture results are obtained and the antibiotic is having an effect. Enteric precautions and neutropenic precautions are not associated with the mode of transmission of meningitis. Enteric precautions are instituted when the mode of transmission is through the gastrointestinal tract. Neutropenic precautions are instituted when a child has a low neutrophil count.
A 7-year-old child is seen in a clinic, and the pediatrician documents a diagnosis of nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis. The nurse should provide which information to the parents? 1. Nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis does not respond to treatment. 2. Nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis is caused by a psychiatric problem. 3. Nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis requires surgical intervention to improve the problem. 4. Nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis is usually outgrown without therapeutic intervention.
Answer: 4 Rationale: Nighttime (nocturnal) enuresis occurs in a child who has never been dry at night for extended periods. The condition is common in children, and most children eventually outgrow bedwetting without therapeutic intervention. The child is unable to sense a full bladder and does not awaken to void. The child may have delayed maturation of the central nervous system. The condition is not caused by a psychiatric problem.
The nurse provides home care instructions to the parents of a child hospitalized with pertussis who is in the convalescent stage and is being prepared for discharge. Which statement by a parent indicates a need for further instruction? 1. "We need to encourage our child to drink fluids." 2. "Coughing spells may be triggered by dust or smoke." 3. "Vomiting may occur when our child has coughing episodes." 4. "We need to maintain droplet precautions and a quiet environment for at least 2 weeks."
Answer: 4 Rationale: Pertussis is transmitted by direct contact or respiratory droplets from coughing. The communicable period occurs primarily during the catarrhal stage. Respiratory precautions are not required during the convalescent phase. Options 1, 2, and 3 are accurate components of home care instructions.
A child is diagnosed with Reye's syndrome. The nurse creates a nursing care plan for the child and should include which intervention in the plan? 1. Assessing hearing loss 2. Monitoring urine output 3. Changing body position every 2 hours 4. Providing a quiet atmosphere with dimmed lighting
Answer: 4 Rationale: Reye's syndrome is an acute encephalopathy that follows a viral illness and is characterized pathologically by cerebral edema and fatty changes in the liver. In Reye's syndrome, supportive care is directed toward monitoring and managing cerebral edema. Decreasing stimuli in the environment by providing a quiet environment with dimmed lighting would decrease the stress on the cerebral tissue and neuron responses. Hearing loss and urine output are not affected. Changing the body position every 2 hours would not affect the cerebral edema directly. The child should be positioned with the head elevated to decrease the progression of the cerebral edema and promote drainage of cerebrospinal fluid.
A child who has undergone spinal fusion for scoliosis complains of abdominal discomfort and begins to have episodes of vomiting. On further assessment, the nurse notes abdominal distention. On the basis of these findings, the nurse should take which action? 1. Administer an antiemetic. 2. Increase the intravenous fluids. 3. Place the child in a Sims' position. 4. Notify the primary health care provider (PHCP).
Answer: 4 Rationale: Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that usually involves lateral curvature, spinal rotation resulting in rib asymmetry, and hypokyphosis of the thorax. A complication after surgical treatment of scoliosis is superior mesenteric artery syndrome. This disorder is caused by mechanical changes in the position of the child's abdominal contents, resulting from lengthening of the child's body. The disorder results in a syndrome of emesis and abdominal distention similar to that which occurs with intestinal obstruction or paralytic ileus. Postoperative vomiting in children with body casts or children who have undergone spinal fusion warrants attention because of the possibility of superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Options 1, 2, and 3 are incorrect.
A child is placed in skeletal traction for treatment of a fractured femur. The nurse creates a plan of care and should include which intervention? 1. Ensure that all ropes are outside the pulleys. 2. Ensure that the weights are resting lightly on the floor. 3. Restrict diversional and play activities until the child is out of traction. 4. Check the primary health care provider's (PHCP's) prescriptions for the amount of weight to be applied.
Answer: 4 Rationale: When a child is in traction, the nurse would check the PHCP's prescription to verify the prescribed amount of traction weight. The nurse would maintain the correct amount of weight as prescribed, ensure that the weights hang freely, check the ropes for fraying and ensure that they are on the pulleys appropriately, monitor the neurovascular status of the involved extremity, and monitor for signs and symptoms of complications of immobilization. The nurse would provide therapeutic and diversional play activities for the child.
