An infant with hydrocele is seen in the clinic for a follow-up visit at 1 month of age. The scrotum is smaller than it was at birth, but fluid is still visible on illumination. Which of the following actions is the physician likely to recommend?
No treatment is necessary, the fluid is reabsorbing normally
Keeping the infant in a flat, supine position until the fluid is gone
Referral to a surgeon for repair
Massaging the groin area twice a day until the fluid is gone.
The Correct Answer is A
A. No treatment is necessary, the fluid is reabsorbing normally:
- This option suggests that the hydrocele is resolving spontaneously, which is often the case in infants. The physician may choose to observe the hydrocele over time as it is likely to resolve without intervention.
B. Keeping the infant in a flat, supine position until the fluid is gone:
- This option does not address the underlying cause of the hydrocele and is not a standard treatment recommendation. Additionally, positioning changes are unlikely to affect the resolution of the hydrocele.
C. Referral to a surgeon for repair:
- Surgical repair may be considered if the hydrocele persists beyond a certain age or if it causes discomfort or complications. However, it is typically not recommended in infants unless the hydrocele persists beyond infancy or causes other issues.
D. Massaging the groin area twice a day until the fluid is gone:
- Massaging the groin area is not a recommended treatment for hydrocele and may not be effective in resolving the condition. Additionally, manipulating the scrotum may cause discomfort or injury to the infant.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "My belly doesn't hurt anymore."
- This statement is concerning because sudden relief from severe right lower quadrant pain in a child with a history of nausea, vomiting, and suspected appendicitis may indicate a rupture or perforation of the appendix. When the appendix ruptures, there may be a temporary alleviation of pain due to the release of pressure. However, this situation is critical and requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications such as peritonitis or sepsis.
B. "I am hungry and thirsty."
- While it's normal for a child to feel hungry and thirsty, especially if they have been experiencing nausea and vomiting, this statement is not necessarily concerning on its own. However, in the context of suspected appendicitis and severe right lower quadrant pain, it's important for the child to remain NPO (nothing by mouth) to prevent complications in case surgery is needed.
C. "I'm tired and want to take a nap."
- Feeling tired and wanting to rest is not uncommon, especially if the child has been experiencing discomfort or pain for a prolonged period. While this statement may indicate fatigue, it's not inherently concerning in the context of suspected appendicitis. However, it's important for the nurse to monitor the child's energy level and overall condition.
D. "I am scared and I want to go home."
- It's understandable for a child to feel scared or anxious, particularly when facing a medical procedure such as surgery. While this statement reflects the child's emotions, it doesn't necessarily indicate a change in their medical condition. However, it's important for the nurse to address the child's fears and provide emotional support while ensuring that the child receives appropriate medical care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will have to feed my baby formula, rather than breast milk." - This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Breast milk is generally preferred for infants with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) because it is more easily digested and less likely to exacerbate reflux symptoms compared to formula. Breastfeeding mothers may be encouraged to continue breastfeeding, and formula-fed infants may benefit from specialized formulas designed to reduce reflux symptoms.
B. "I should move my baby into a side-lying position during sleep." - This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Placing an infant in a side-lying position during sleep is not recommended due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Instead, infants with GER should be placed on their back to sleep, as recommended by safe sleep guidelines. Elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly may also help reduce reflux symptoms during sleep.
C. "My baby's formula can be thickened with oatmeal." - This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Thickening formula with oatmeal or rice cereal can help reduce gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms in infants by making the formula heavier and less likely to reflux back into the esophagus. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure proper preparation and feeding technique.
D. "I will keep my baby in an upright position after feedings." - This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. Keeping the baby in an upright position after feedings can help reduce reflux symptoms by allowing gravity to keep the stomach contents down. Parents can hold the baby upright on their shoulder or in an infant seat for a period of time after feeding to minimize reflux episodes.
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