A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse who is performing endotracheal suctioning for a preschool age child. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse requires the charge nurse to intervene?

To calculate the appropriate dose of Theophylline for the child weighing 4.69 kg:

Dose = Weight (kg) × Dose (mg/kg)

Dose = 4.69 kg × 4 mg/kg

Dose = 18.76 mg

So, the appropriate dose is approximately 18.7 mg.

A. Pulmonary function test:

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) assess lung function by measuring airflow, lung volume, and gas exchange. While PFTs can provide valuable information about respiratory function, they are not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show abnormalities consistent with various respiratory conditions. However, PFTs are often performed in individuals with cystic fibrosis to monitor lung function over time and assess response to treatment. They are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing cystic fibrosis.

B. Sweat chloride test:

This option is correct. The sweat chloride test is considered the most definitive diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. It measures the concentration of chloride in sweat, which is typically elevated in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to defective chloride transport in sweat glands. A sweat chloride concentration above a certain threshold (usually ≥60 mmol/L) is diagnostic of cystic fibrosis, particularly when confirmed with repeat testing.

C. Stool fat content analysis:

Stool fat content analysis evaluates fat absorption and fecal fat excretion, which may be impaired in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to pancreatic insufficiency. However, while stool fat content analysis can provide supportive evidence of malabsorption in cystic fibrosis, it is not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition. Stool fat content analysis is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests to assess pancreatic function and nutritional status in individuals with cystic fibrosis.

D. Sputum culture:

Sputum culture involves culturing respiratory secretions to identify bacterial pathogens, which can be useful for diagnosing respiratory infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. However, sputum culture is not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show similar findings in other respiratory conditions. While respiratory cultures are important for guiding treatment in cystic fibrosis, they are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition.