A 3-year-old boy with a congenital heart defect is brought to the clinic by his mother because he has a fever and an earache. During the assessment, the mother asks the nurse why her child is at the 5th percentile for weight and height for his age. Which response is best for the nurse to provide?
"Does your child seem mentally slower than his peers also?"
"Haven't you been feeding him according to recommended daily allowances for children?"
"His smaller size is probably due to the heart disease."
"You should not worry about the growth tables. They are only averages for children."
The Correct Answer is C
In this scenario, the child with a congenital heart defect is presenting with a fever and an
earache. The mother expresses concern about the child's weight and height being at the 5th percentile for his age. Given the child's medical history of a congenital heart defect, it is important for the nurse to address the mother's concerns and provide an accurate response.
The response that states "His smaller size is probably due to the heart disease" is appropriate because children with congenital heart defects may experience growth and developmental delays. Heart defects can affect the child's ability to obtain sufficient nutrients for growth, leading to slower weight and height gain. By acknowledging the relationship between the child's heart disease and his smaller size, the nurse provides the mother with an explanation for the child's growth pattern and helps alleviate concerns.
The other response options are not appropriate or helpful. Asking about the child's mental abilities or implying that the mother has not been feeding the child adequately can be perceived as judgmental or dismissive.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct- As a nurse, it's important to provide accurate and helpful information to patients and families. In this situation, the parents have brought literature from a genetic counselor and are seeking clarification. The nurse should review the literature to the best of their ability and answer any questions they can. This approach demonstrates support, a willingness to help, and a commitment to providing accurate information.
B) Incorrect- While understanding the parents' reasons for seeking genetic counseling is important, it shouldn't be the first response when they have already brought literature and are seeking clarification. Addressing their questions and concerns is the immediate priority.
C) Incorrect- While it's true that the couple could contact the genetic counselor for further information, as a healthcare professional, the nurse should still offer assistance by reviewing the literature and answering questions to the best of their ability.
D) Incorrect- While support groups can be beneficial for parents of children with Trisomy 21, the immediate concern is addressing the parents' questions about the literature they've brought. Providing accurate information should be the primary focus at this time.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct- Zidovudine is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV infection.
One of the potential side effects of zidovudine is hematological toxicity, including anemia (low red blood cell count) and neutropenia (low white blood cell count). The appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin could be indicative of petechiae, which are small hemorrhages caused by the leakage of blood into the skin. Petechiae can occur due to low platelet counts, a
component of the complete blood count (CBC). Monitoring the complete blood count is important for clients receiving zidovudine to identify any potential adverse effects on blood cell counts. Anemia and neutropenia can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. Therefore, any changes in blood cell counts, including the presence of petechiae, should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
B) Incorrect- This is used to assess allergic reactions and is not specifically related to the appearance of petechiae.
C) Incorrect- A skin biopsy is typically performed to diagnose skin conditions or diseases and is not the primary assessment to evaluate the cause of petechiae.
D) Incorrect- Electromyography is a diagnostic test used to assess muscle and nerve function and is not relevant to the appearance of petechiae associated with zidovudine use.
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