Which description of a stool is characteristic of intussusception?
"Currant jelly" stools
Loose, foul smelling stools
Hard stools positive for guaiac
Ribbon-like stools
The Correct Answer is A
Intussusception is a medical condition where a portion of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent section, causing an obstruction. This obstruction can affect the normal passage of stool through the intestine.
In intussusception, the obstructed intestine can lead to the development of blood and mucus within the stool, giving it a characteristic appearance described as "currant jelly." The stool may contain a combination of blood, mucus, and faecal matter, resembling the colour and consistency of currant jelly.
loose, foul-smelling stools in (option) is incorrect because it, is not specific to intussusception and can be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions.
hard stools positive for guaiac in (option C) is incorrect because it, is not typical of intussusception. Hard stools and positive guaiac test results are more commonly associated with constipation or other conditions affecting the lower gastrointestinal tract.
ribbon-like stools, in (option D) is incorrect because it may be seen in conditions like colorectal cancer or other obstructive disorders. However, it is not a specific characteristic of intussusception.
In the context of intussusception, the presence of "currant jelly" stools is considered a significant sign and should prompt immediate medical attention. Intussusception is a medical emergency and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
These symptoms are indicative of hypoglycaemia, which occurs when the blood sugar levels drop too low. Providing a source of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as orange juice, can quickly raise the child's blood sugar levels and alleviate the symptoms.
Administering insulin (Option A) is incorrect because it is not appropriate in this situation because it would further lower the child's blood sugar levels.
Offering water (Option C) is incorrect because it would not effectively address the low blood sugar.
Glucagon (Option D) is incorrect because it is typically used in severe cases of hypoglycaemia when the child is unconscious or unable to swallow, and it requires a prescription. In this case, providing orange juice is the safest and most appropriate initial intervention. However, it is important to seek medical attention and inform the child's healthcare provider about the incident.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Hydrocephalus refers to a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation ofcerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. In infants, hydrocephalus cancause the head to enlarge rapidly as a result of the increased pressure exerted by theaccumulatingfluid.Thisisknownas"rapidheadgrowth."Theincreasedintracranialpressurecanlead to irritabilityand poorappetite in infants.
The distended scalp veins are another common sign of hydrocephalus. As the fluidaccumulates,itputs pressureon thebloodvessels inthe brain,causingtheveinsin thescalptobecome morevisible and distended.
Cerebral palsy in (option A) is incorrect because is a neurological disorder that affects bodymovementandmusclecoordination,butitdoesnottypicallypresentwithrapid headgrowthordistended scalp veins.
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) in (option B) is incorrect becauseitisacondition characterized byexcessivesecretionofantidiuretichormone,leadingtofluidimbalance, but it does not usually cause rapid head growth or distended scalp veins. Reye'ssyndrome (D) is a rare condition that primarily affects the liver and brain, and it does nottypicallypresent with rapid headgrowthor distended scalp veins.
Therefore, based on the signs described, hydrocephalus (C) is the most likely disorder in thiscase.Itisimportantto seekmedicalattentionpromptlyforaproperdiagnosisand appropriatemanagementofhydrocephalus in infants.
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