A school nurse is performing a routine health assessment for a school-age child.
Which of the following findings indicates the nurse should investigate further for pediculosis capitis?
Dry patches on the scalp.
Pruritus of the scalp.
Bald patches on the scalp.
Blisters on the scalp.
The Correct Answer is B
Pruritus, or itching, of the scalp, is a common symptom of pediculosis capitis, also known as head lice infestation 123.
Choice A is not correct because dry patches on the scalp are not a common symptom of pediculosis capitis 123.
Choice C is not correct because bald patches on the scalp are not a common symptom of pediculosis capitis 123.
Choice D is not correct because blisters on the scalp are not a common symptom of pediculosis capitis 123.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Head lice are spread most commonly by direct head-to-head (hair-to-hair) contact.
However, much less frequently they are spread by sharing clothing or belongings onto which lice have crawled or nits attached to shed hairs may have fallen.
Choice B is not correct because lice cannot jump from one child to another. Choice C is not correct because live lice survive less than 1-2 days if they fall off a
person and cannot feed.
Choice D is not correct because washing your child’s hair daily will not prevent lice.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should suspect candidiasis, also known as oral thrush.
Candidiasis is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth and is characterized by the presence of a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.
The child’s use of antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and corticosteroids can increase the risk of developing candidiasis.
Choice A is incorrect because dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin and
would not present as a white plaque in the mouth.
Choice C is incorrect because herpes simplex typically presents as painful blisters or sores in the mouth.
Choice D is incorrect because squamous cell carcinoma typically presents as a firm, painless growth, or ulcer in the mouth.

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