A 3-month-old with bronchiolitis is brought to the clinic experiencing irritability and poor oral intake. Which finding should alert the practical nurse (PN) that the child is in acute respiratory distress?
Flaring of the nares.
Resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute.
Bilateral bronchial breath sounds.
Diaphragmatic respirations.
The Correct Answer is A
Flaring of the nares, or widening of the nostrils, is a sign of respiratory distress in infants. It indicates that the child is working harder to breathe. This finding should alert the practical nurse (PN) that the child with bronchiolitis is in acute respiratory distress.
A resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute (B) is within the normal range for a 3-month-old infant. Bilateral bronchial breath sounds (C) and diaphragmatic respirations (D) are not specific signs of acute respiratory distress in infants.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The PN should report the injury details to the charge nurse. This is important because the charge nurse needs to be aware of any changes in the patient's condition and can help determine the appropriate course of action. The other options are not the most appropriate actions for the PN to take in this situation.
Obtaining a heel stick glucose (A) may be necessary if hypoglycemia is suspected, but it is not the most immediate concern.
Initiating strict intake and output measurements (C) may be necessary for monitoring fluid balance, but it is not the most immediate concern.
Swaddling the infant in a blanket (D) may provide comfort, but it does not address the underlying issue of the head injury and seizure episode.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory infections, especially in infants and young children. RSV is easily spread through contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals, and can survive on surfaces for several hours. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing other children to RSV, especially those who are under 6 months old or have a weakened immune system. The practical nurse (PN) should advise the mother not to take her infant to the birthday party to prevent the spread of RSV to other children. The PN can provide education on how to prevent the spread of RSV, such as washing hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
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