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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a correct description of Bryant traction. This type of traction does not involve pins or wires inserted into the bone. It is a skin traction that uses adhesive straps or bandages attached to the skin of the lower legs.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct description of Bryant traction. This type of traction does not maintain the leg in an extended position. It flexes the hip and knee at a 90-degree angle and suspends the leg in the air.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct description of Bryant traction. This type of traction does not use a sling under the knee of the affected leg. It uses a spreader bar to keep the legs apart and prevent rotation.
Choice D reason: This is a correct description of Bryant traction. This type of traction elevates the buttocks slightly off of the bed to provide countertraction and alignment of the fractured bone.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the parents what caused the bruises is not the best action, as it may not elicit truthful or accurate information. The parents may be the perpetrators of the abuse, or they may be unaware or in denial of the abuse. The nurse should not confront or accuse the parents without sufficient evidence or support.
Choice B reason: Notifying social services is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should first gather more information and document the findings before making a report. The nurse should also follow the policies and procedures of the health care facility regarding child abuse reporting.
Choice C reason: Asking the toddler what caused the bruises is the best action, as it may provide valuable clues about the source and nature of the injuries. The nurse should use a gentle and nonjudgmental approach, and ask open-ended questions, such as "How did you get these bruises?" or "Who hurt you?" The nurse should also observe the child's behavior and body language, and reassure the child that they are not in trouble.
Choice D reason: Notifying the provider is a necessary action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess and interview the child, and document the findings. The nurse should also consult with the provider about the appropriate medical care and follow-up for the child. The provider may also assist the nurse in making a report to social services.
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