When measuring a 6-month-old baby in the hospital for seizures, the nurse obtains a head circumference that is up 1 cm from the last measurement one week ago. The nurse re-measures and gets the same number What is the best next step?
Assume you made a mistake and report out the same head circumference as the before
Take Vital Signs
Report to the MD/NP/PA in charge of the patient the head circumference that you obtained as well as the patient's current status. Expect that they will also re-measure
Move your measuring tape to above the mid-forehead, so that your number matches the findings from the week before.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assume you made a mistake and report out the same head circumference as before.
Incorrect Explanation: Assuming a mistake without taking proper action might not be the best approach.
Explanation: While it's good to consider the possibility of human error, healthcare professionals should prioritize accurate measurements and follow appropriate protocols when discrepancies arise.
B. Take Vital Signs.
Incorrect Explanation: Taking vital signs might not directly address the concern about the head circumference measurement.
Explanation: Vital signs (like heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure) are important indicators of a patient's overall health, but they may not directly address the issue of the head circumference measurement discrepancy.
C. Report to the MD/NP/PA in charge of the patient the head circumference that you obtained as well as the patient's current status. Expect that they will also re-measure.
Correct Explanation: This is the best next step.
Explanation: When there's a discrepancy in a critical measurement like head circumference, it's important to communicate this to the responsible healthcare provider (MD/NP/PA). They need to be aware of any changes in the patient's condition and measurements, and they will likely want to re-measure or reassess the situation themselves to ensure accuracy.
D. Move your measuring tape to above the mid-forehead, so that your number matches the findings from the week before.
Incorrect Explanation: Fudging measurements to match previous data is not a professional or ethical approach.
Explanation: Altering measurements to match previous values, especially without proper indication, is not a responsible practice in healthcare. It's essential to ensure accurate and honest documentation.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Levothyroxine
Correct Answer: Levothyroxine should be administered before breakfast.
Explanation: Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism. It needs to be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating, to ensure proper absorption. Food can interfere with its absorption, especially foods containing calcium, iron, and fiber.
B. Digoxin
Incorrect Explanation: Digoxin does not need to be administered before breakfast.
Explanation: Digoxin is a medication used to treat heart conditions like congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It doesn't have specific instructions regarding administration in relation to meals. It's important to administer digoxin consistently at the same time every day, but it doesn't need to be taken specifically before or after breakfast.
C. Divalproex
Incorrect Explanation: Divalproex does not need to be administered before breakfast.
Explanation: Divalproex is used to treat conditions like epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It can be taken with or without food. While taking it with food might reduce the likelihood of stomach upset, there's no requirement to take it specifically before breakfast.
D. Mycostatin Mouthwash
Incorrect Explanation: Mycostatin mouthwash is not related to breakfast timing.
Explanation: Mycostatin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections in the mouth (oral thrush). Its administration is not linked to meal times. It's typically swished around in the mouth and then swallowed or spit out, depending on the specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Place a pillow under the child's head.
Explanation: While providing comfort is important, the priority in this scenario is to ensure the child's safety. Placing a pillow under the head can be considered after addressing immediate safety concerns.
B. Clear the area of hazards.
Explanation: Correct Choice. Ensuring the area is clear of hazards is the nurse's priority. During a seizure, the child can experience uncontrolled movements, and having hazards around can lead to injuries. Clearing the area helps prevent harm. But priority is to position the child side lying.
C. Position the child side-lying.
Explanation: Correct Choice. Placing the child in a side-lying position helps prevent choking and aspiration due to vomiting during the seizure. It also minimizes the risk of airway obstruction and helps manage secretions.
D. Loosen restrictive clothing.
Explanation: While loosening restrictive clothing can facilitate breathing, the priority in this situation is addressing safety concerns related to the seizure and vomiting. Ensuring a clear and safe environment takes precedence.
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