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
failure to thrive.
microcephaly.
hydrocephalus.
macrocephaly.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Failure to thrive is not a likely condition, as it is a term used to describe inadequate growth or weight gain in children. The infant has a low weight percentile, but not below the 5th percentile, which is the usual cutoff for failure to thrive. The infant's length and head circumference are within the normal range, which also does not indicate failure to thrive.
Choice B reason: Microcephaly is not a probable condition, as it is a condition where the head size is much smaller than normal for the age and sex of the child. The infant has a high head circumference percentile, which is the opposite of microcephaly. Microcephaly can be caused by genetic disorders, infections, or brain damage.
Choice C reason: Hydrocephalus is a possible condition, as it is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, causing increased pressure and enlargement of the head. The infant has a high head circumference percentile, which can indicate hydrocephalus. The infant also has a low weight percentile, which can be a result of poor feeding or vomiting due to increased intracranial pressure. T
Choice D reason: Macrocephaly is not a definite condition, as it is a term used to describe a head size that is much larger than normal for the age and sex of the child. The infant has a high head circumference percentile, but not above the 97th percentile, which is the usual cutoff for macrocephaly. Macrocephaly can be caused by genetic factors, benign familial macrocephaly, or other conditions, such as hydrocephalus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The child has acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is receiving chemotherapy and steroids, which can cause constipation. The nurse should monitor the child's bowel function and provide interventions such as fluids, fiber, and laxatives as prescribed, but this is not an urgent finding.
Choice B reason: The child is in the induction phase of treatment for ALL, which can be stressful and frightening for the child and the family. The child's crying and clinging behavior indicates anxiety and fear, which are normal reactions. The nurse should provide emotional support and education to the child and the guardian, but this is not an urgent finding.
Choice C reason: The child has a fever, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy and steroids. The nurse should assess the child for other signs of infection, administer antipyretics as prescribed, and monitor the child's vital signs, but this is not an urgent finding.
Choice D reason: The child has a double-lumen central line catheter in the left chest wall, which is a potential source of infection. The erythema and purulent drainage at the insertion site indicate that the child has a local infection, which can spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis. This is a life-threatening complication that requires immediate attention and treatment. The nurse should report this finding to the provider, obtain blood cultures, and administer antibiotics as prescribed.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A: The reason why the child is taking the medication
It is essential for the nurse to explain why the child is taking the medication. This helps the parents or caregivers understand the importance of the medication and ensures they are more likely to adhere to the prescribed treatment plan. Knowing the reason for the medication can also help in recognizing the signs of improvement or any potential issues that may arise during the course of treatment.
Choice B: The adverse effects of the medication
Informing the parents or caregivers about the potential adverse effects of the medication is crucial. This knowledge allows them to monitor the child for any side effects and seek medical attention if necessary. It also helps in managing expectations and reduces anxiety if any common side effects occur.
Choice C: Stopping the medication when the child feels better
This is not a correct choice. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the child starts feeling better. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete treatment of the infection and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Choice D: Written information about the medication
Providing written information about the medication is important as it serves as a reference for the parents or caregivers. This information can include dosage instructions, potential side effects, and any other relevant details. Written instructions help ensure that the medication is administered correctly and consistently.
Choice E: Using a kitchen spoon to administer the medication
This is not a correct choice. Using a kitchen spoon to administer medication is not recommended as it can lead to inaccurate dosing. It is important to use a proper measuring device, such as an oral syringe or a medication cup, to ensure the correct dosage is given.
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