A nurse is assisting with the care of a 2-year-old child.
For each potential provider's prescription, click to specify if the potential prescription is anticipated or contraindicated for the child.
Ceftriaxone 50 mg/kg/dose IV every 24 hr
Loperamide PO 1 mg twice daily
Check urine specific gravity every 4 hr.
Dextrose 5% sodium chloride IV infusion 60 mL/hr over 6 hr
Obtain arterial blood gases.
Oral rehydration solution 50 mL/kg over 4 hr
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"B"},"F":{"answers":"A"}}
• Ceftriaxone 50 mg/kg/dose IV every 24 hr: The stool sample is positive for Escherichia coli, indicating a bacterial gastroenteritis that may require IV antibiotics due to dehydration and systemic involvement. Ceftriaxone provides broad-spectrum coverage appropriate for pediatric patients with moderate to severe infection. IV administration ensures adequate therapeutic levels while the child is unable to tolerate oral intake.
• Check urine specific gravity every 4 hr: The child shows signs of dehydration: weight loss, concentrated urine, sunken eyes, and poor skin turgor. Monitoring urine specific gravity frequently provides an objective measure of hydration status and kidney perfusion. It allows the nurse to evaluate response to fluid therapy.
• Loperamide PO 1 mg twice daily: Antidiarrheal medications like loperamide are contraindicated in pediatric infectious diarrhea, especially with E. coli. Loperamide slows intestinal motility, which can prolong infection and increase the risk of complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome. In children, it can also cause central nervous system depression.
• Dextrose 5% sodium chloride IV infusion 60 mL/hr over 6 hr: IV fluid replacement is essential for a child with significant fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea. Dextrose with sodium chloride provides both hydration and caloric support, correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Infusion rate is calculated to safely restore intravascular volume without causing fluid overload.
• Obtain arterial blood gases: Arterial blood gas analysis is not necessary in a child with mild to moderate dehydration and stable oxygenation. Vital signs and urine output provide adequate monitoring of perfusion and acid-base status in this context. ABGs are reserved for cases of severe dehydration with respiratory compromise or suspected metabolic derangements.
• Oral rehydration solution 50 mL/kg over 4 hr: Once the child is stable and able to tolerate oral intake, oral rehydration is recommended to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. ORS replenishes lost sodium and water efficiently and reduces the risk of ongoing dehydration. It is evidence-based for mild to moderate dehydration in pediatric gastroenteritis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Consume a diet high in fat: Older adults are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. Diets high in saturated and trans fats contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risk. Nutritional recommendations emphasize lean proteins, healthy fats in moderation, and balanced intake rather than high-fat consumption.
B. Drink 1 L (32 oz) water each day: Older adults typically require about 1.5 to 2 liters of fluid daily unless contraindicated by conditions such as heart failure or renal disease. A daily intake of only 1 liter may be insufficient and increases the risk of dehydration, which is more common in older adults due to decreased thirst sensation.
C. Snack between meals: Smaller, more frequent meals and snacks can help maintain caloric intake in older adults who experience decreased appetite, early satiety, or altered taste sensation. Snacking between meals supports adequate nutrient consumption and helps prevent unintended weight loss or malnutrition.
D. Eat three large meals each day: Large meals may be difficult for older adults to tolerate due to decreased gastric motility and early satiety. This pattern can lead to inadequate intake if the client cannot finish meals. Smaller, more frequent meals are generally better tolerated and promote improved nutritional status.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Evaluating the effectiveness of acetaminophen administered 30 min ago to a client who reported a headache: Assessing medication effectiveness requires professional judgment to evaluate pain relief, side effects, and changes in condition. This is within the registered nurse’s scope of practice and cannot be delegated to an assistive personnel (AP).
B. Discussing upcoming dietary changes with a client who has a new prescription for a low-cholesterol diet: Teaching about diet involves interpretation, assessment of understanding, and individualized instruction, which are nursing responsibilities. APs cannot provide education about new prescriptions or therapeutic diets.
C. Measuring urine output every 2 hr for a client recently diagnosed with a urinary tract infection: Measuring and recording urine output is a routine, stable, and predictable task that does not require professional judgment. APs are qualified to perform this task under supervision, making it appropriate for delegation.
D. Inserting a temporary nasogastric tube for a client who has a prescription for laboratory analysis of stomach contents: Nasogastric tube insertion is an invasive procedure requiring skill, assessment, and clinical judgment. It falls within the registered nurse’s scope of practice and cannot be delegated to an AP.
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