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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, also known as Perthes disease, is a childhood condition that affects the hip joint. It occurs due to a disruption in the blood supply to the femoral head (epiphysis), which can lead to bone death (avascular necrosis) and subsequent deformity of the femoral head.
It is essential for parents to understand that Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is not an acute illness that lasts for a short duration (Option A). It is a chronic condition that typically progresses over a period of months or years.
stating that it is caused by a virus, in (option C) is incorrect. The exact cause of Legg-Calve- Perthes disease is not fully understood, but it is not caused by a viral infection. It is believed to be related to multifactorial factors, including genetic and vascular factors.
stating that it primarily affects adults, in (option D) is incorrect. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease predominantly affects children, typically between the ages of 4 and 8 years old, during the period of rapid growth.
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