The nurse performs an assessment of a child with pertussis (whooping cough). Which finding would the nurse identify as indicative of a potential complication?
A urinary output of 30 mL/hr
A white blood cell (WBC) count of 10.000 mm3 (10×109/L)
Decreased breath sounds in the lung bases
A weight gain
The Correct Answer is C
A. A urinary output of 30 mL/hr
Explanation: While decreased urinary output may indicate dehydration, it is not a specific finding related to pertussis. Dehydration can occur due to inadequate fluid intake or loss through vomiting or sweating.
B. A white blood cell (WBC) count of 10,000 mm3 (10×10^9/L)
Explanation: An elevated white blood cell count is a common finding in infections, including pertussis. It reflects the body's immune response to the infection. A WBC count of 10,000 mm3 is within the normal range, and while it indicates an inflammatory response, it does not specifically point to a complication.
C. Decreased breath sounds in the lung bases
Explanation:
Pertussis is a respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Complications can arise, including pneumonia. Decreased breath sounds in the lung bases may suggest the presence of pneumonia, which is a serious complication of pertussis. Pneumonia can lead to respiratory distress and requires prompt medical attention.
D. A weight gain
Explanation: Weight gain is not typically associated with pertussis. In fact, respiratory distress and difficulty feeding during coughing paroxysms can lead to weight loss in infants with pertussis. Weight gain may be indicative of other unrelated factors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Test the urine for protein.
Explanation: Testing urine for protein is not a priority nursing intervention in the preoperative period for an infant with hydrocephalus. The focus is on preventing complications related to immobility and positioning.
B. Reposition the infant frequently.
Explanation:
Repositioning the infant frequently is a crucial intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers (bedsores). Infants with hydrocephalus may be at an increased risk of skin breakdown due to prolonged immobility and pressure on specific areas. Repositioning helps distribute pressure, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of skin breakdown.
C. Assess blood pressure every 15 minutes.
Explanation: While monitoring blood pressure is important in certain situations, it is not typically the priority for an infant with hydrocephalus in the preoperative period. The focus is on preventing skin breakdown through repositioning.
D. Provide a stimulating environment.
Explanation: While providing a stimulating environment can be beneficial for infant development, it is not the priority in the preoperative period for an infant with hydrocephalus. The primary concern is addressing potential complications related to immobility, such as skin breakdown.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Has your child been exposed to anyone with chicken pox?"
While chickenpox is caused by a different virus (varicella-zoster virus) and is not directly linked to rheumatic fever, the nurse might inquire about exposure to contagious illnesses as a general part of the assessment.
B. "Has any family member had a sore throat within the past few weeks?"
This question is relevant because rheumatic fever often follows an untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal infection, such as strep throat. A sore throat in a family member could indicate the presence of streptococcal infection, which is a crucial factor in the development of rheumatic fever.
C. "Has any family member had a gastrointestinal disorder in the past few weeks?"
Gastrointestinal disorders are not directly associated with the development of rheumatic fever. However, a comprehensive medical history might include questions about recent illnesses to understand the overall health context.
D. "Has your child had difficulty urinating?"
Difficulty urinating is not a typical symptom or risk factor associated with rheumatic fever. This symptom would likely prompt investigation into other potential issues but is not specifically related to rheumatic fever.
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