While obtaining the vital signs of a 10-year-old child who had a tonsillectomy this morning, the nurse observes the child swallowing every 2 to 3 minutes.
Which assessment should the nurse implement?
Inspect the posterior oropharynx.
Touch the tonsillar pillars to stimulate the gag reflex.
Ask the child to speak to evaluate change in voice tone.
Assess for teeth clenching or grinding.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should inspect the posterior oropharynx of a child who is frequently swallowing after tonsillectomy to assess for bleeding or the presence of clots. Swallowing frequently can be a sign of postoperative bleeding, which is a potential complication of tonsillectomy.
Touching the tonsillar pillars to stimulate the gag reflex or asking the child to speak would not provide information about the presence of bleeding.
Assessing for teeth clenching or grinding is not related to this particular observation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
To maintain normal growth and development of an infant with a repaired gastroschisis who is receiving parenteral nutrition and continuous enteral feedings, the nurse should include offering a pacifier for non- nutritive sucking in the plan of care. Non-nutritive sucking can help promote the development of the infant's oral motor skills and support normal feeding behaviors. The other options (B, C, and D) are not directly related to maintaining normal growth and development in this situation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Peripheral intravenous (IV) infusion is a common procedure performed on infants in a hospital setting. The selection of the IV site is critical to ensure proper placement and to prevent complications.
When starting a peripheral IV infusion on an infant, the nurse should select a site that is least restrictive to the infant. This involves selecting a site that will not restrict the infant's movement and cause discomfort. The site should be accessible, visible, and easily palpable, such as the hand, wrist, or antecubital fossa.
Assessing the dorsal surface of the feet for an IV site is not recommended as it is an area of high risk for infiltration and may restrict the infant's movement.
Instructing parents to sing or croon to the infant may provide comfort and distraction, but it is not a critical intervention when starting a peripheral IV infusion.
Applying soft restraints to all four extremities is not recommended as it may cause physical and emotional distress to the infant. It should only be used as a last resort if the infant is at high risk of self-injury or if the procedure cannot be safely performed without restraints.
Therefore, the nurse should implement the intervention of selecting a site that is least restrictive to the infant when starting a peripheral IV infusion.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today