A nurse on a pediatric unit has received change-of-shift report for four children. Which of the following children should the nurse assess first?
A 6-month-old infant who has croup and an O2 saturation of 92% on room air
A 15-year-old adolescent who is 2 hr postoperative following an open reduction and internal fixation of the left ankle and is requesting pain medication
A 3-year-old toddler who has gastroenteritis, moderate dehydration, and had two loose bowel movements over the past 24 hr
A 10-year-old child who is awaiting surgery for an appendectomy and experienced sudden relief from pain
None
None
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is D
Choice A Reason: While croup can be serious, an O2 saturation of 92% on room air is generally stable. This child's condition is concerning but not immediately life-threatening.
Choice B Reason: A 15-year-old adolescent who is 2 hours postoperative following an open reduction and internal fixation of the left ankle and is requesting pain medication is in need of comfort measures. Postoperative pain management is important for recovery, but it is not a priority over more critical conditions.
Choice C Reason: A 3-year-old toddler with gastroenteritis, moderate dehydration, and two loose bowel movements over the past 24 hours requires rehydration and monitoring. The normal range for bowel movements varies, but two loose stools in 24 hours for a toddler with gastroenteritis is not unusual. Dehydration can become severe, so this child should be assessed soon, but it is not the most urgent case.
Choice D Reason: This child's sudden relief from pain could be a sign of a perforated appendix, a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention. Therefore, this child's condition is the most urgent and requires immediate assessment.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because the completion of the incident report should not be documented in the client's medical record, but in a separate file for quality improvement purposes.
B is correct because the time the medication was given is an essential fact related to the incident that should be documented in the client's medical record.
C is incorrect because the reason for the medication error should not be documented in the client's medical record, but in the incident report for analysis and prevention of future errors.
D is incorrect because the notification of the pharmacist should not be documented in the client's medical record, but in the incident report for follow-up and corrective actions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Storing personal items together on a shelf in the bathroom promotes organization and reduces the risk of tripping or falling over scattered items. Keeping the environment tidy and free of clutter is an essential fall prevention strategy, especially in areas where the client moves frequently.
Choice Brationale:
Wearing a yellow wristband to indicate a fall risk is a common practice in healthcare facilities. However, merely wearing the wristband does not demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of fall prevention strategies. While it is essential for healthcare providers to identify patients at risk of falling, educating the patient about specific strategies to prevent falls is equally important.
Choice C rationale:
Keeping the overhead lights on at all times does not necessarily indicate an understanding of fall prevention strategies. While adequate lighting is important to prevent falls, leaving lights on continuously may not be necessary during daylight hours. It is more effective to ensure there is adequate lighting in commonly used areas and during nighttime hours.
Choice Drationale:
Wearing a restraint around the waist is not a recommended fall prevention strategy. Physical restraints are generally discouraged in healthcare settings due to ethical concerns and the potential to cause harm to the patient. Restraints can lead to complications such as pressure ulcers, loss of muscle strength, and decreased mobility.
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