What is an important nursing responsibility when a dysrhythmia is suspected?
- A. order an immediate electrocardiogram
- B. count the radial pulse every 1 minute for five times
- C. count the apical pulse for 1 full minute, and compare the rate with the radial pulse rate
- D. have someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously with the apical pulse
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.
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After corrective surgery for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) is completed, and the infant is returned to the pediatric unit with an IV infusion in place, what is the priority nursing action?
- A. Apply adequate restraints.
- B. Administer a mild sedative.
- C. Assess the IV site for infiltration.
- D. Attach the nasogastric tube to wall suction.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The priority nursing action after corrective surgery for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) is to assess the IV site for infiltration. This is crucial as it ensures proper fluid administration and prevents complications such as phlebitis or infiltration-related tissue damage. Applying restraints (Choice A) would not be appropriate in this situation as it is not related to the immediate post-operative care of an infant with an IV infusion. Administering a mild sedative (Choice B) is not indicated as the primary concern post-surgery is monitoring the IV site and the infant's response to the surgery. Attaching the nasogastric tube to wall suction (Choice D) is not the priority at this time, as assessing the IV site takes precedence to prevent potential complications.
A nurse is teaching the parents of a child with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus about blood glucose monitoring. What should the nurse emphasize?
- A. Checking blood glucose levels before meals and at bedtime
- B. Using a lancet device to obtain blood samples
- C. Using urine test strips for monitoring
- D. Recognizing signs of hypoglycemia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Checking blood glucose levels before meals and at bedtime is essential for managing type 1 diabetes mellitus. This timing helps in assessing the effectiveness of insulin therapy, making adjustments to insulin doses, and preventing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Option B is incorrect because it focuses on the method of obtaining blood samples rather than the timing of monitoring. Option C is incorrect as urine test strips are not recommended for accurate blood glucose monitoring in type 1 diabetes. Option D, recognizing signs of hypoglycemia, is important but not the primary emphasis when teaching about blood glucose monitoring.
A parent arrives in the emergency clinic with a 3-month-old baby who says, "My baby stopped breathing for a while." The infant continues to have difficulty breathing, with prolonged periods of apnea. Which assessment data should alert the nurse to suspect shaken baby syndrome (SBS)?
- A. Birth occurred before 32 weeks' gestation
- B. Lack of stridor and adventitious breath sounds
- C. Previous episodes of apnea lasting 10 to 15 seconds
- D. Retractions and use of accessory respiratory muscles
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Retractions and the use of accessory respiratory muscles can be signs of respiratory distress, which may indicate trauma such as shaken baby syndrome (SBS). Shaken baby syndrome can result in brain injury and respiratory compromise, leading to breathing difficulties. Choices A, B, and C are less likely to be associated with SBS. Birth before 32 weeks' gestation is more related to prematurity rather than SBS. The lack of stridor and adventitious breath sounds, as well as previous episodes of apnea lasting 10 to 15 seconds, are not specific indicators of SBS.
A 3-year-old child is being discharged after being treated for dehydration. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Monitor for signs of infection
- B. Monitor for signs of dehydration
- C. Monitor for signs of hypovolemia
- D. Monitor for signs of malnutrition
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct! When a child is being discharged after treatment for dehydration, it is important to educate caregivers about monitoring for signs of dehydration to prevent reoccurrence. Dehydration is the primary concern in this scenario, as the child's fluid levels need to be closely monitored. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while infection, hypovolemia, and malnutrition are also important considerations in pediatric care, the immediate focus after treating dehydration should be on preventing its recurrence by monitoring for signs of dehydration.
A child with a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is admitted to the hospital. What is the priority nursing intervention?
- A. Administering pancreatic enzymes
- B. Providing respiratory therapy
- C. Providing nutritional support
- D. Encouraging physical activity
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is administering pancreatic enzymes. In cystic fibrosis, the pancreas is often affected, leading to insufficient production of digestive enzymes. Administering pancreatic enzymes is crucial to ensure proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. While respiratory therapy, nutritional support, and physical activity are essential components of care for individuals with cystic fibrosis, addressing the digestive aspect by administering pancreatic enzymes takes priority to prevent malnutrition and promote overall health.