In assessing a 2-year-old boy with croup, the practical nurse (PN) finds that he has become increasingly irritable and has developed tachypnea and resting stridor. Which intervention is best for the PN to implement?
Instruct the mother to play with the child for stimulation and distraction.
Administer a dose of acetaminophen as needed.
Monitor the child's oxygen saturation level via pulse oximetry.
Encourage the child to drink adequate amounts of fluids.
The Correct Answer is C
Croup is a respiratory infection that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airway, resulting in a barking cough, hoarseness, and stridor. The PN should monitor the child's oxygen saturation level via pulse oximetry, as it can indicate the severity of the airway obstruction and the need for supplemental oxygen or other interventions.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Instructing the mother to play with the child for stimulation and distraction may worsen the child's condition, as it can increase his respiratory demand and anxiety.
B. Administering a dose of acetaminophen as needed may help reduce fever or pain, but it does not address the underlying cause of croup or improve airway patency.
D. Encouraging the child to drink adequate amounts of fluids may help prevent dehydration and thin the secretions, but it does not relieve the inflammation or narrowing of the airway.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. Electrolytes.
Choice A rationale: The white blood cell count (WBC) is typically reviewed for signs of infection or inflammation, but it is not directly related to numbness and tingling.
Choice B rationale: Hematocrit levels assess the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, which are not commonly associated with numbness and tingling.
Choice C rationale: Albumin and protein levels are important for nutritional status and overall health but are not directly associated with numbness and tingling.
Choice D rationale: Electrolytes are crucial for nerve function and muscle contractions. Abnormal levels of electrolytes (such as calcium, potassium, or sodium) can lead to symptoms like numbness and tingling in the extremities.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C: Leave the room after offering to return to the client's room at a later time.
Choice A rationale:
Consulting with the charge nurse about implementing suicide precautions is not appropriate in this situation. The client has not expressed suicidal ideation or intent, and such an action could be invasive and distressing for the client.
Choice B rationale:
Sitting quietly in the client's room until the client is ready to verbalize his feelings might seem supportive, but it disregards the client's request for alone time. It's essential to respect the client's wishes and provide an opportunity for self-reflection and privacy.
Choice C rationale:
Leaving the room after offering to return to the client's room at a later time is the most appropriate action. The client has requested solitude, and respecting his autonomy is crucial in building trust and rapport.
Choice D rationale:
Notifying a member of the client's family of the need to come stay with the client is not necessary at this point. The client's desire for alone time does not indicate an immediate need for family support. The practical nurse should first respect the client's request and give him space to process the news. If the client later expresses a need for family support, appropriate actions can be taken accordingly.
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