Pediatric Practice Exam HESI Related

Review Pediatric Practice Exam HESI related questions and content

What is the priority nursing responsibility when a 3-year-old child in a crib has a clamped jaw and is having a tonic-clonic seizure?

  • A. Apply restraints.
  • B. Administer oxygen.
  • C. Protect the child from self-injury.
  • D. Insert a plastic airway in the child's mouth.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the priority nursing responsibility is to protect the child from self-injury. Applying restraints is not recommended during a seizure as it can lead to further harm. Administering oxygen may be necessary after the seizure to support oxygenation, but it is not the priority during the seizure itself. Inserting a plastic airway is also not indicated as the jaw is clamped, and the child should not have anything placed in the mouth during a seizure. Therefore, the correct action is to ensure the child's safety by protecting them from self-injury, preventing harm from uncontrolled movements and potential falls.