A school nurse is completing routine health evaluations for school-age children. Which of the following manifestation should alert the nurse to the possibility of pediculosis capitis?
Patches of baldness
Blisters on the scalp
Dry patches on the scalp
Reports of scalp itchiness
The Correct Answer is D
A. Patches of baldness: Patches of baldness on the scalp could be indicative of conditions like alopecia areata, a disorder characterized by hair loss in patches. However, it is not a typical manifestation of pediculosis capitis, which primarily presents with scalp itchiness due to lice bites rather than hair loss.
B. Blisters on the scalp: Blisters on the scalp may suggest other conditions such as herpes simplex infection or contact dermatitis. While scratching from head lice infestation could lead to skin irritation, blisters are not a common presentation of pediculosis capitis.
C. Dry patches on the scalp: Dry patches on the scalp might be caused by conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or eczema. While scalp dryness can occur with pediculosis capitis due to irritation from scratching, it is not a specific symptom associated with head lice infestation.
D. Reports of scalp itchiness: Scalp itchiness is a hallmark symptom of pediculosis capitis. It occurs as a result of lice bites and the body's inflammatory response to their saliva. It is the most characteristic and common manifestation of head lice infestation and often prompts further examination for the presence of lice or their eggs (nits).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Measuring the child's chest circumference:
Measuring the chest circumference may not directly aid in the assessment of Wilm's tumor. While it's important for assessing respiratory conditions or monitoring growth, it's not a primary assessment for Wilm's tumor, which primarily affects the abdomen.
B. Palpating the child's abdomen:
This is an essential action in assessing for Wilm's tumor. The nurse should carefully palpate the abdomen to check for any masses, swelling, or tenderness, as these could be indicative of the tumor.
C. Measuring the child's occipitofrontal circumference:
This measurement pertains to the head circumference and is not directly related to the assessment of Wilm's tumor. While it's important for monitoring head growth and development, it's not a priority when assessing for Wilm's tumor.
D. Placing the child in an upright position:
Placing the child in an upright position may be necessary for certain assessments or procedures, but it's not directly related to assessing for Wilm's tumor. The focus should primarily be on abdominal assessment and palpation to detect any signs of the tumor.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Orange-tinged urine
- This manifestation is not typically associated with nephrotic syndrome. Orange-tinged urine may indicate other conditions such as dehydration, liver disease, or the presence of certain medications or foods.
B. Hypertension
- Hypertension is not a common manifestation of nephrotic syndrome. However, it can occur in some cases due to the retention of sodium and water, which can lead to fluid overload and increased blood pressure.
C. Periorbital edema
- This is a classic manifestation of nephrotic syndrome. Periorbital edema, or swelling around the eyes, is often one of the initial signs observed in children with nephrotic syndrome due to the loss of protein in the urine, leading to fluid accumulation in the tissues.
D. Polyuria
- Polyuria, or increased urine output, is not typically associated with nephrotic syndrome. Instead, children with nephrotic syndrome may experience oliguria or normal urine output, depending on the severity of renal involvement and fluid balance.

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