A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has appendicitis.
For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as a manifestation of a perforated appendix and report to the provider?
Bradycardia.
Elevated temperature.
Lethargy.
Decreased abdominal girth.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is Choice B.
Choice A rationale: Bradycardia is not typically associated with a perforated appendix. Instead, tachycardia (increased heart rate) may occur due to pain and infection-related systemic responses. Bradycardia could indicate other unrelated medical issues and should still be monitored.
Choice B rationale: Elevated temperature is a key sign of infection and inflammation, which are common with a perforated appendix. The release of bacteria into the abdominal cavity can cause peritonitis, leading to fever as part of the body's immune response.
Choice C rationale: Lethargy can be a nonspecific symptom and may occur in various conditions. While it can be associated with severe infection, it is not a definitive indicator of a perforated appendix. Monitoring for more specific signs, like fever and pain, is crucial.
Choice D rationale: Decreased abdominal girth is unlikely and not indicative of a perforated appendix. Instead, an increase in abdominal girth due to fluid accumulation (ascites) or air (from perforation) would be more concerning and should be reported promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should not include the instruction to "Avoid breastfeeding for 3 days after receiving the vaccine." This is not a necessary precaution for the MMR vaccine. Breastfeeding can continue after the MMR vaccination without any adverse effects on the infant.
Choice B rationale:
The correct instruction is to "Avoid pregnancy for at least 28 days after receiving the vaccine." This is because the MMR vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, and there is a theoretical risk of transmitting the virus to a developing fetus. Waiting for 28 days after vaccination allows the woman's immune system to respond to the vaccine and reduce any potential risk to the fetus. This is especially important during the postpartum period when a woman may be at risk of becoming pregnant again.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "If you are allergic to gluten, you should not receive this vaccine" is not accurate. The MMR vaccine does not contain gluten as an ingredient. Allergic reactions to the MMR vaccine are generally related to components of the vaccine itself, not gluten.
Choice D rationale:
The instruction to "Your partner should also receive the MMR vaccine" is not a standard recommendation for postpartum women. While it is essential for individuals to be up-to-date on their vaccinations, the focus in this scenario should be on the postpartum woman receiving the MMR vaccine to protect herself and any future pregnancies.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While music therapy can be a helpful adjunct for pain management, it is not a replacement for all pain medications. Pain management should be individualized, and the statement that music therapy alone will eliminate the need for all medication is not accurate.
Choice B rationale:
Discontinuing music therapy when the patient is no longer responsive may not be the best approach. Music therapy can still provide comfort and support even if the patient is not responsive in the traditional sense. It should be continued if it benefits the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Playing music is not intended to increase alertness but rather to provide comfort and relaxation. This statement reflects a misunderstanding of the purpose of music therapy in pain management.
Choice D rationale:
This statement correctly indicates an understanding of the purpose of music therapy. Music can distract the patient from pain and provide a sense of comfort and relaxation without completely eliminating awareness of pain.
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