The nurse is caring for a 4-month-old infant in the emergency department. The nurse reviews the infant's medical record and assessment findings. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect, and what actions should the nurse take to address that condition, and what parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the infant's progress?
The nurse should suspect that the infant has
meningitis.
hydrocephalus.
intracranial hemorrhage.
sepsis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Meningitis is a possible condition, as it is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The infant has many signs and symptoms of meningitis, such as fever, irritability, lethargy, bulging fontanel, and clear cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbar puncture.
Choice B reason: Hydrocephalus is not a likely condition, as it is an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which causes increased intracranial pressure and enlargement of the head. The infant has a bulging fontanel, which can indicate increased intracranial pressure, but not necessarily hydrocephalus. The infant does not have other signs of hydrocephalus, such as a rapidly increasing head circumference, prominent scalp veins, or sunset eyes.
Choice C reason: Intracranial hemorrhage is not a probable condition, as it is a bleeding within the skull, which can result from trauma, vascular malformation, or coagulation disorder. The infant has retinal hemorrhages, which can indicate intracranial hemorrhage, but not necessarily. The infant does not have other signs of intracranial hemorrhage, such as seizures, vomiting, or altered mental status.
Choice D reason: Sepsis is not a definite condition, as it is a systemic inflammatory response to an infection, which can cause organ dysfunction and shock. The infant has a fever, which can indicate sepsis, but not necessarily. The infant does not have other signs of sepsis, such as tachycardia, tachypnea, hypotension, or poor perfusion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Acetaminophen suppository is not a likely prescription, as it is used to reduce fever and pain, which are not the main problems of the toddler. The toddler has a high axillary temperature of 39.5°C (103.1°F), which is not considered a fever in children under 2 years old. The normal axillary temperature range for children is 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F).
Choice B reason: Oral rehydration solution is not a probable prescription, as it is used to prevent or treat dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, which are not the main problems of the toddler. The toddler has a normal respiratory rate of 22/min and oxygen saturation of 98%, which indicate adequate hydration and oxygenation.
Choice C reason: Nebulized albuterol is a possible prescription, as it is used to treat bronchospasm, which is a common complication of respiratory infections in children. The toddler has a high apical heart rate of 142/min, which may indicate respiratory distress or hypoxia. The toddler is also pulling at his ear, which may indicate an ear infection or pain.
Choice D reason: Intravenous antibiotics are not a likely prescription, as they are used to treat bacterial infections, which are not the main problems of the toddler. The toddler has no signs or symptoms of a bacterial infection, such as purulent discharge, foul odor, or localized inflammation. The toddler may have a viral infection, which does not respond to antibiotics.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Weight loss is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Weight gain due to fluid retention is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's weight and fluid intake and output regularly.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Tachycardia due to increased cardiac workload is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's heart rate and rhythm frequently.
Choice C reason: Increased urine output is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Decreased urine output due to poor renal perfusion is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's urine specific gravity and electrolytes periodically.
Choice D reason: Orthopnea is a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Orthopnea is the difficulty of breathing when lying flat. The nurse should elevate the toddler's head and chest to facilitate breathing and oxygenation.
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