A nurse is caring for a child who has otitis media. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse expect?
Tugging on the affected ear lobe
Erythema and edema of the affected ear
Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe
Clear drainage from the affected ear
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: A. Tugging on the affected ear lobe.
Choice A reason:
Tugging on the affected ear lobe is a common sign of discomfort in children with otitis media. This behavior indicates that the child is experiencing pain or pressure in the ear, which is a typical symptom of this condition. Children often cannot verbalize their discomfort, so they may tug or pull at their ears to express their pain.
Choice B reason:
Erythema and edema of the affected ear are more indicative of otitis externa (swimmer's ear) rather than otitis media. Otitis media involves inflammation and infection of the middle ear, which is not typically visible externally. The primary signs of otitis media are observed through otoscopic examination, showing a bulging or erythematous tympanic membrane.
Choice C reason:
Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe is also more characteristic of otitis externa. In otitis media, the pain is usually deeper within the ear and not exacerbated by touching the outer ear. The pain in otitis media is due to the pressure and inflammation in the middle ear space.
Choice D reason:
Clear drainage from the affected ear is not typical of otitis media. If there is drainage, it is usually purulent (pus-like) and indicates a ruptured eardrum due to the infection. Clear drainage is more commonly associated with conditions like otitis externa or a perforated eardrum without infection.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Improving the client's school attendance skills is not the priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy, which is a condition that affects one side of the body and causes muscle weakness, spasticity, and impaired coordination. Improving the client's school attendance skills is a long-term goal that requires collaboration with the school staff, the child, and the parents. The priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy is to ensure their safety and mobility at home.
Choice B: Providing teaching on self-care activities is not the priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy, which is a condition that affects one side of the body and causes muscle weakness, spasticity, and impaired coordination. Providing teaching on self-care activities is an important goal that requires assessment of the child's abilities, needs, and preferences. The priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy is to ensure their safety and mobility at home.
Choice C: Modifying the environment for optimal safety and mobility is the priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy, which is a condition that affects one side of the body and causes muscle weakness, spasticity, and impaired coordination. Modifying the environment for optimal safety and mobility can prevent falls, injuries, or complications and promote independence and function. The nurse should include interventions such as removing clutter, securing rugs, installing grab bars, providing adaptive equipment, and arranging furniture.
Choice D: Providing counseling services for the parents is not the priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy, which is a condition that affects one side of the body and causes muscle weakness, spasticity, and impaired coordination. Providing counseling services for the parents is a supportive goal that requires referral to appropriate resources, such as social workers, psychologists, or support groups. The priority goal for a child who has hemiplegic cerebral palsy is to ensure their safety and mobility at home.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: This response is appropriate, as it informs the parent that reporting suspected child abuse is a legal and ethical obligation for nurses, regardless of their personal opinions or feelings. This response also shows respect and honesty by acknowledging the parent's concern and explaining the reason for the nurse's action.
Choice B: This response is not appropriate, as it deflects responsibility and avoids answering the parent's question. This response also shows disrespect and dishonesty by implying that the provider is more qualified or authorized to explain the situation than the nurse.
Choice C: This response is not appropriate, as it denies information and creates confusion for the parent. This response also shows indifference and avoidance by suggesting that the nurse does not want to deal with the issue or communicate with the parent.
Choice D: This response is not appropriate, as it shifts blame and undermines trust between the nurse and the parent. This response also shows defensiveness and insecurity by implying that the nurse did not make the decision or take accountability for their action.
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