A nurse is collecting data from an infant who has Hirschsprung's disease. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Abdominal distention.
Steatorrhea.
Blood-tinged emesis.
Dysphagia.
The Correct Answer is A
Abdominal distention. Choice A reason:
Abdominal distention is a common manifestation of Hirschsprung's disease in infants. This condition is characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal segment of the colon, leading to a functional obstruction. The absence of ganglion cells causes the affected part of the colon to become narrow and unable to relax, resulting in a buildup of stool and gas, leading to abdominal distention.
Choice B reason:
Steatorrhea, which is the presence of fatty, bulky, and foul-smelling stools, is not typically associated with Hirschsprung's disease. This manifestation is more commonly seen in conditions affecting the pancreas, liver, or small intestine, where the digestion and absorption of fats are impaired.
Choice C reason:
Blood-tinged emesis (vomiting) is not a typical manifestation of Hirschsprung's disease. This symptom is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be caused by various factors such as ulcers, esophageal varices, or gastritis.
Choice D reason:
Dysphagia, which refers to difficulty swallowing, is also not a characteristic manifestation of Hirschsprung's disease. Dysphagia is more commonly seen in conditions affecting the esophagus or throat, such as esophageal strictures or neurological disorders affecting swallowing reflexes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse's priority in this situation is the respiratory rate of 10/min. A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute is significantly low and could indicate respiratory depression, especially if the patient is receiving morphine, which is known to depress the respiratory system. This could lead to inadequate oxygenation, potential hypoxia, and other life-threatening complications.
Choice B reason:
Bladder distention may be a concern, but it is not the nurse's priority in this situation. Bladder distention can cause discomfort and urinary retention, but it is not an immediate life- threatening condition compared to potential respiratory depression.
Choice C reason:
A blood pressure of 108/64 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adolescent and may not be the nurse's priority at this time. Although it should be monitored, it does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life.
Choice D reason:
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of morphine administration, but they are not the nurse's priority in this situation. While they can cause distress and discomfort to the patient, they are not life-threatening conditions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not reinforce to the client that they should not breastfeed after delivery. Group B streptococcus (GBS) is not transmitted through breast milk. It is crucial for infants born to GBS-positive mothers to receive appropriate prophylaxis, but breastfeeding is not contraindicated.
Choice B reason:
The nurse should maintain contact precautions for the client. Group B streptococcus is a highly contagious bacterium, and taking precautions can help prevent its transmission to other patients and healthcare workers.
Choice C reason:
The nurse does not need to obtain a pharyngeal culture from the client. Group B streptococcus colonization typically occurs in the genital and gastrointestinal tracts, not in the pharynx. Therefore, a pharyngeal culture would not be relevant in this situation.
Choice D reason:
This is the correct action the nurse should take. The client tested positive for group B streptococcus, which puts the newborn at risk of infection during labor and delivery. The standard protocol is to administer intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis to the mother during labor to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.
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