The nurse is taking a sexual history on an adolescent girl. Which is the best way to determine whether she is sexually active?
- A. Ask her, Are you sexually active?
- B. Ask her, Are you having sex with anyone?
- C. Ask her, Are you having sex with a boyfriend?
- D. Ask both the girl and her parent if she is sexually active.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Asking the adolescent girl if she is having sex with anyone is a direct question that is well understood. The phrase sexually active is broadly defined and may not provide specific information for the nurse to provide necessary care. The word anyone is preferred to using gender-specific terms such as boyfriend or girlfriend. Using gender-neutral terms is inclusive and conveys acceptance to the adolescent. Questioning about sexual activity should occur when the adolescent is alone.
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Which is the single most important factor to consider when communicating with children?
- A. Presence of the childs parent
- B. Childs physical condition
- C. Childs developmental level
- D. Childs nonverbal behaviors
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse must be aware of the childs developmental stage to engage in effective communication. The use of both verbal and nonverbal communication should be appropriate to the developmental level. Nonverbal behaviors vary in importance based on the childs developmental level and physical condition. Although the childs physical condition is a consideration, developmental level is much more important. The presence of parents is important when communicating with young children but may be detrimental when speaking with adolescents.
When doing a nutritional assessment on a Hispanic family, the nurse learns that their diet consists mainly of vegetables, legumes, and starches. The nurse should recognize that this diet is which?
- A. Lacking in protein
- B. Indicating they live in poverty
- C. Providing sufficient amino acids
- D. Needing enrichment with meat and milk
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A diet that contains vegetables, legumes, and starches may provide sufficient essential amino acids even though the actual amount of meat or dairy protein is low. Combinations of foods contain the essential amino acids necessary for growth. Many cultures use diets that contain this combination of foods. It is not indicative of poverty. A dietary assessment should be done, but many vegetarian diets are sufficient for growth.
An 8-year-old girl asks the nurse how the blood pressure apparatus works. The most appropriate nursing action is which?
- A. Ask her why she wants to know.
- B. Determine why she is so anxious.
- C. Explain in simple terms how it works.
- D. Tell her she will see how it works as it is used.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: School-age children require explanations and reasons for everything. They are interested in the functional aspect of all procedures, objects, and activities. It is appropriate for the nurse to explain how equipment works and what will happen to the child so that the child can then observe during the procedure. The nurse should respond positively for requests for information about procedures and health information. By not responding, the nurse may be limiting communication with the child. The child is not exhibiting anxiety in asking how the blood pressure apparatus works, just requesting clarification of what will occur.
When the nurse interviews an adolescent, which is especially important?
- A. Focus the discussion on the peer group.
- B. Allow an opportunity to express feelings.
- C. Use the same type of language as the adolescent.
- D. Emphasize that confidentiality will always be maintained.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Adolescents, like all children, need opportunities to express their feelings. Often they interject feelings into their words. The nurse must be alert to the words and feelings expressed. The nurse should maintain a professional relationship with adolescents. To avoid misunderstanding or misinterpretation of words and phrases used, the nurse should clarify the terms used, what information will be shared with other members of the health care team, and any limits to confidentiality. Although the peer group is important to this age group, the interview should focus on the adolescent.
What is the earliest age at which a satisfactory radial pulse can be taken in children?
- A. 1 year
- B. 2 years
- C. 3 years
- D. 6 years
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Satisfactory radial pulses can be taken in children older than 2 years. In infants and young children, the apical pulse is more reliable.
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