A nurse is preparing to administer a vaccine into the deltoid muscle of a preschooler. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Use a 20 gauge needle
Insert the needle just below the acromion process
Insert the needle at a 15 degree angle
Use a 1.8 mm (0.5 in) needle
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Using a 20 gauge needle is not the best action, as it is too large for a preschooler's deltoid muscle. A 20 gauge needle has a diameter of 0.9 mm, which may cause more pain and tissue damage. A smaller gauge needle, such as a 23 or 25 gauge, is recommended for intramuscular injections in children.
Choice B reason: Inserting the needle just below the acromion process is not the best action, as it may not reach the deltoid muscle. The acromion process is the bony prominence at the top of the shoulder. The deltoid muscle is located on the lateral aspect of the upper arm, about two finger widths below the acromion process. The nurse should palpate the acromion process and measure the distance to the injection site.
Choice C reason: Inserting the needle at a 15 degree angle is not the best action, as it may not penetrate the muscle tissue. A 15 degree angle is used for intradermal injections, which are given into the dermis, the layer of skin below the epidermis. Intramuscular injections are given into the muscle tissue, which requires a 90 degree angle. The nurse should hold the syringe perpendicular to the skin and insert the needle quickly and firmly.
Choice D reason: Using a 1.8 mm (0.5 in) needle is the best action, as it is the appropriate length for a preschooler's deltoid muscle. The length of the needle should be based on the child's age, weight, and muscle mass. A 1.8 mm (0.5 in) needle is suitable for children who weigh less than 12 kg (26 lb). A longer needle, such as a 2.5 mm (1 in) needle, may be used for children who weigh more than 12 kg (26 lb).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a contraindication for the MMR immunization, which is a live attenuated vaccine. A child who has a congenital immunodeficiency may not be able to mount an adequate immune response to the vaccine and may be at risk of developing the diseases from the vaccine.
Choice B reason: This is not a contraindication for the MMR immunization. A mild fever after a previous immunization is not a sign of an allergic reaction or a serious adverse effect. The child can still receive the MMR immunization as long as they do not have a moderate or severe illness.
Choice C reason: This is not a contraindication for the MMR immunization. Taking antibiotics for otitis media does not interfere with the effectiveness or safety of the vaccine. The child can still receive the MMR immunization as long as they do not have a moderate or severe illness.
Choice D reason: This is not a contraindication for the MMR immunization. A mild cough and a low-grade fever are not signs of a moderate or severe illness that would prevent the child from receiving the vaccine. The child can still receive the MMR immunization as long as they do not have any other contraindications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering the child clear liquids for the first 24 hours is not necessary, as the child can resume a normal diet after the procedure. Clear liquids are only recommended for the first few hours after the procedure to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Choice B reason: Assisting the child to take a tub bath for the first 3 days is not advised, as it can increase the risk of infection and bleeding at the catheter insertion site. The child should avoid tub baths, swimming, and soaking the site until it is completely healed, which may take up to a week.
Choice C reason: Giving the child acetaminophen for discomfort is appropriate, as it can relieve the pain and soreness at the catheter insertion site. The child should avoid aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Choice D reason: Keeping the child home for 1 week is not required, as the child can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure. The child should avoid strenuous activities, such as running, jumping, and biking, for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
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