Which assessment finding should the nurse expect in an infant with Hirschsprung disease?
Constipation with passage of foul-smelling, ribbon-like stools
Diarrhea
Foul-smelling, fatty stools
"Currant jelly" stools
The Correct Answer is A
The assessment finding that the nurse should expect in an infant with Hirschsprung disease is option A, constipation with the passage of foul-smelling, ribbon-like stools. Hirschsprung disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal part of the colon, leading to functional obstruction. The affected segment of the colon lacks the normal peristaltic movements, resulting in an accumulation of faecal matter. The stools passed by infants with Hirschsprung disease are often constipated, and the narrow, ribbon- like appearance is a result of the narrowed segment of the colon.
diarrhea (option B) is incorrect because it, is not typically associated with Hirschsprung disease. Instead, the condition presents with constipation due to the obstructed bowel.
foul-smelling, fatty stools in (option C) is incorrect because it, is not characteristic of Hirschsprung disease. This finding may be associated with malabsorption disorders such as cystic fibrosis or celiac disease, but not specifically with Hirschsprung disease.
"currant jelly" stools in (option D) is incorrect because it, is a term commonly used to describe the stools seen in intussusception, which is a different condition involving the telescoping of one segment of the bowel into another. It is not an expected finding in Hirschsprung disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The harness maintains the hips in flexion, abduction, and external rotation
The factor that the nurse should include when teaching a parent about the care of a newborn
in a Pavlik harness for hip dysplasia is that the harness maintains the hips in flexion,
abduction, and external rotation. The Pavlik harness is a commonly used device for the
treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in infants. It is designed to hold the
hips in a position that promotes proper alignment and development.
The harness maintains the hips in flexion, abduction and external rotation in (Option B) is
incorrect. The Pavlik harness should not be removed with every diaper change. The harness
needs to be worn consistently as directed by the healthcare provider to ensure the
effectiveness of the treatment.
The harness is the only first step of treatment in (Option C) is incorrect. While the Pavlik
harness is an important step in the treatment of hip dysplasia, it is not the only step.
Additional treatments, such as bracing or surgical interventions, may be required depending
on the severity of the condition.
The harness in worn for 2 weeks in (Option D) is incorrect. The duration for which the Pavlik
harness is worn can vary depending on the individual case and the healthcare provider's
instructions. It is typically worn for several weeks to months, and the specific duration will be
determined by the healthcare provider based on the child's progress and response to
treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Hypothyroidismreferstoanunderactivethyroid glandthatdoesnotproduceenoughthyroidhormones. In newborns, this condition is known as congenital hypothyroidism. Thesymptoms mentioned—mottled skin, a large fontanel (soft spot on the baby's head), a largetongue,lethargy, anddifficultyfeeding—arecharacteristic ofhypothyroidism inneonates.
Mottledskincanoccur duetodecreasedcirculationandlow bodytemperatureassociatedwith hypothyroidism. A large fontanel and tongue are common physical features seen ininfants with hypothyroidism. Lethargy and poor feeding are also typical signs of thiscondition.
Hypoglycaemia in (option A) is incorrect because it refers to low blood sugar levels andusuallypresentswithdifferent symptomssuchas jitteriness,tremors,and sweating.
Hypocalcaemia in (option C) is incorrect because it is low calcium levels and can manifestwithsymptoms like muscle cramps, twitching,and seizures.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) in (option D) it is incorrect because it is a metabolic disordercharacterized by the inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, and it typicallypresentswith differentsymptoms such asintellectual disabilityandamustydoorto theskin.
Therefore, based on the symptoms described, hypothyroidism (B) is the most likely disorderinthisneonate. Itisimportanttoconsultahealthcareprofessionalforaproperdiagnosisandappropriatetreatment.
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