HESI Pediatrics Practice Exam Related

Review HESI Pediatrics Practice Exam related questions and content

A 2-year-old child with a history of frequent ear infections is brought to the clinic by the parents who are concerned about the child's hearing. What should the nurse do first?

  • A. Ask the parents about the child's speech development
  • B. Perform a hearing test
  • C. Inspect the child's ears for drainage
  • D. Refer the child to an audiologist
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate initial action for the nurse to take is to inspect the child's ears for drainage. This step can provide immediate information on the presence of infection or fluid, which could be impacting the child's hearing. By assessing for drainage, the nurse can gather valuable initial data to determine the next course of action, such as further evaluation or treatment. Asking about speech development or referring to an audiologist would be secondary steps after assessing the physical condition of the ears. Performing a hearing test would also be premature without first examining the ears for any visible issues.