A school nurse is assessing a child for pediculosis capitis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse recognize as an indication of this condition?
Itching and scratching of the head.
Firmly attached white particles on the hair.
Thick yellow crusted lesion on a red base.
Patchy areas of hair loss.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice b. Firmly attached white particles on the hair.
Choice A rationale:
Itching and scratching of the head are common symptoms of pediculosis capitis, but they are not definitive indicators. Itching can be caused by various other conditions such as dandruff or allergies.
Choice B rationale:
Firmly attached white particles on the hair, known as nits, are a definitive sign of pediculosis capitis. Nits are lice eggs that stick to the hair shafts and are difficult to remove.
Choice C rationale:
Thick yellow crusted lesions on a red base are more indicative of impetigo, a bacterial skin infection, rather than pediculosis capitis.
Choice D rationale:
Patchy areas of hair loss are typically associated with conditions like alopecia areata or fungal infections such as tinea capitis, not pediculosis capitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A.
Choice A rationale: Encouraging the infant to stand in the crib while in a cast for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) supports gross motor development and maintains neuromuscular stimulation. Standing promotes proprioceptive input, strengthens postural muscles, and supports bone mineralization through weight-bearing. Infants in hip spica casts or orthotic devices can safely stand with supervision, preserving developmental milestones. Normal serum calcium ranges from 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL, and mechanical loading enhances osteoblastic activity and skeletal growth.
Choice B rationale: While electronic toys offer sensory stimulation, they do not adequately support gross motor development in infants with DDH. At 10 months, infants require opportunities for vertical positioning and weight-bearing to stimulate vestibular and musculoskeletal systems. Passive play with electronic toys may delay motor milestones such as cruising and standing. Developmental progress depends on integrated sensory-motor experiences, and reliance on sedentary toys may limit engagement of core and lower limb musculature.
Choice C rationale: Latex balloons pose a significant safety hazard due to the risk of aspiration and suffocation. When burst, latex fragments can occlude the airway, especially in infants with underdeveloped protective reflexes. The tracheal diameter in infants averages 4 to 5 mm, making obstruction by balloon fragments potentially fatal. Additionally, latex exposure may trigger allergic reactions, particularly in atopic individuals. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises against latex balloon use in children under 8 years.
Choice D rationale: Prompt diaper changes are essential for skin integrity, especially under a cast where moisture retention can lead to maceration and infection. However, this action does not directly promote growth and development. It is a hygiene measure that prevents irritant contact dermatitis and secondary infections such as Candida albicans. Normal skin pH ranges from 4.5 to 5.5, and prolonged exposure to urine and feces elevates pH, disrupting the acid mantle. While necessary, it lacks developmental stimulation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is d. Modify the environment.
Rationale for each choice:
Choice a. Improve the client's communication skills.
- Statement:While communication is important,it is not the priority for a child with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
- Rationale:Hemiplegic cerebral palsy primarily affects motor skills,not communication abilities.While some children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy may have speech difficulties,it is not the most pressing concern in this case.Addressing environmental barriers to promote mobility and independence takes precedence.
Choice b. Provide respite services for the parents.
- Statement:Respite services can provide valuable support for parents,but they are not the priority in this case.
- Rationale:The focus of the care plan should be on the child's immediate needs and safety.Modifying the environment to enhance the child's functional abilities is crucial for their development and well-being.
Choice c. Foster self-care activities.
- Statement:Encouraging self-care is essential,but it requires a supportive environment.
- Rationale:Before promoting self-care activities,the nurse must ensure the child has the necessary accommodations and modifications in place to facilitate independence.
Choice d. Modify the environment.
- Statement:This is the priority goal for a child with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
- Rationale:Modifying the home environment can significantly improve the child's mobility,safety,and ability to participate in daily activities.Examples of modifications include:
- Installing grab bars in the bathroom
- Widening doorways
- Removing tripping hazards
- Providing adaptive equipment such as special chairs or utensils
- Ensuring adequatelighting
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