A nurse is reinforcing teaching about diagnostic tests with the parents of a child who has suspected cystic fibrosis. Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse include as the most definitive when diagnosing cystic fibrosis?
Pulmonary function test
Sweat chloride test
Stool fat content analysis
Sputum culture
The Correct Answer is B
A. Pulmonary function test:
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) assess lung function by measuring airflow, lung volume, and gas exchange. While PFTs can provide valuable information about respiratory function, they are not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show abnormalities consistent with various respiratory conditions. However, PFTs are often performed in individuals with cystic fibrosis to monitor lung function over time and assess response to treatment. They are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing cystic fibrosis.
B. Sweat chloride test:
This option is correct. The sweat chloride test is considered the most definitive diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. It measures the concentration of chloride in sweat, which is typically elevated in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to defective chloride transport in sweat glands. A sweat chloride concentration above a certain threshold (usually ≥60 mmol/L) is diagnostic of cystic fibrosis, particularly when confirmed with repeat testing.
C. Stool fat content analysis:
Stool fat content analysis evaluates fat absorption and fecal fat excretion, which may be impaired in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to pancreatic insufficiency. However, while stool fat content analysis can provide supportive evidence of malabsorption in cystic fibrosis, it is not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition. Stool fat content analysis is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests to assess pancreatic function and nutritional status in individuals with cystic fibrosis.
D. Sputum culture:
Sputum culture involves culturing respiratory secretions to identify bacterial pathogens, which can be useful for diagnosing respiratory infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. However, sputum culture is not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show similar findings in other respiratory conditions. While respiratory cultures are important for guiding treatment in cystic fibrosis, they are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Upright: This position allows for better expansion of the lungs and improved ventilation-perfusion matching, as gravity helps the diaphragm move downward and expand the lungs. It is often beneficial for patients with respiratory distress or failure.
B. Supine: While lying flat on the back (supine position) may be comfortable for some patients, it can restrict lung expansion, especially in individuals with compromised respiratory function. This position may not be ideal for maximal lung expansion in this scenario.
C. Prone: The prone position involves lying flat on the abdomen. In some cases, especially in adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), prone positioning has been shown to improve oxygenation by optimizing lung mechanics. However, it may not be practical or comfortable for all patients and is not typically used as a first-line intervention in school-age children with pneumonia.
D. Side-lying: While side-lying positions can sometimes improve lung expansion on the dependent side, it may not be as effective as the upright position in maximizing lung expansion, especially in cases of respiratory failure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Place the infant in prone position.
This option is incorrect. Placing the infant in the prone position (lying on the stomach) could put pressure on the spinal lesion, potentially causing discomfort or complications. It's important to minimize pressure on the affected area in infants with spina bifida.
B. Cover the infant's lesion with a dry cloth.
This option is incorrect. While keeping the lesion clean and dry is important for preventing infection, simply covering it with a dry cloth may not provide adequate protection. Proper wound care techniques, such as using sterile dressings and cleaning the area with prescribed solutions, are typically necessary to prevent infection and promote healing.
C. Feed the infant through an NG tube.
This option is incorrect. While infants with severe forms of spina bifida may have difficulty feeding due to associated complications, such as difficulty swallowing or weak sucking reflexes, feeding through a nasogastric (NG) tube is not a standard intervention for spina bifida itself. Feeding methods would depend on the specific needs and abilities of the infant, and may involve breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or other methods under the guidance of healthcare professionals.
D. Diapering over a low defect will keep the infant free from infection.
This option is correct. Diapering over a low defect (the opening in the spine caused by spina bifida) helps to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. By properly covering the defect with a diaper, exposure to urine and feces, which can increase the risk of infection, is minimized. Additionally, regular diaper changes and proper hygiene practices are essential for preventing complications in infants with spina bifida.
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