ATI RN
Pediatric Nursing Cardiovascular Disorders Questions
Question 1 of 5
A female client who received partial-thickness and full-thickness burns over 40% of her body in a house fire is admitted to the inpatient burn unit. What fluid should the nurse prepare to administer during the acute phase of the client's burn recovery?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the acute phase of burn recovery, fluid resuscitation is critical to maintain adequate tissue perfusion and prevent complications like hypovolemic shock. The correct fluid to administer in this scenario is Ringer's Lactate. Ringer's Lactate is preferred due to its composition containing electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium) that closely resemble those lost in burn injuries, helping to restore intravascular volume and electrolyte balance. Normal saline (Option B) is isotonic and lacks the electrolyte composition found in Ringer's Lactate, which may not adequately address the electrolyte imbalances seen in burn patients. Dextrose 5% in water (D5W - Option C) is a hypotonic solution that primarily provides free water without addressing the electrolyte needs in burn patients. Hypertonic saline (Option D) is not typically used in the initial resuscitation phase of burn patients and may lead to further electrolyte imbalances. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind fluid choices in burn patients is crucial for nurses caring for these patients. By grasping the principles of fluid resuscitation in burn injuries, nurses can provide optimal care to ensure positive outcomes and prevent complications in this vulnerable population.
Question 2 of 5
The family suspects that AIDS dementia is occurring in their son who is HIV positive. Which symptom confirms their suspicions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) A change has recently occurred in his handwriting. This symptom suggests AIDS dementia because it is a common neurological manifestation of advanced HIV infection in pediatric patients. AIDS dementia complex can present with cognitive impairment, behavioral changes, motor dysfunction, and alterations in handwriting, which may include deterioration in fine motor skills. Option B) The client has a persistent cough and fever is incorrect because these symptoms are more indicative of respiratory infections common in HIV-positive pediatric patients, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, rather than AIDS dementia. Option C) The client experiences shortness of breath is incorrect as it could be a sign of respiratory issues or cardiovascular problems in the context of HIV, but it is not specific to AIDS dementia. Option D) The client exhibits a loss of appetite is also incorrect since it is a non-specific symptom commonly seen in various conditions, including HIV infection, but not specifically indicative of AIDS dementia. Educationally, understanding the neurological manifestations of advanced HIV infection, such as AIDS dementia complex, is crucial for pediatric nurses caring for HIV-positive children. Recognizing subtle changes in handwriting can prompt early intervention and appropriate management to improve the quality of life for these patients. Regular neurological assessments and education for families on recognizing such symptoms are essential in the holistic care of pediatric patients with HIV.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse reviews the laboratory results for a child with a suspected diagnosis of rheumatic fever. The nurse knows that which laboratory study would assist in confirming the diagnosis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing and cardiovascular disorders, understanding the laboratory studies that assist in confirming a diagnosis like rheumatic fever is crucial for providing effective care. The correct answer is D) Anti-streptolysin O titer. Rheumatic fever is often preceded by a streptococcal infection, and the presence of anti-streptolysin O antibodies indicates recent streptococcal infection, helping confirm the diagnosis. This test is specific to streptococcal infections and is essential in diagnosing rheumatic fever accurately. Option A) Immunoglobulin is too broad and does not specifically target the streptococcal infection needed for diagnosing rheumatic fever. Option B) Red blood cell count and C) White blood cell count are general tests that do not provide specific information about a streptococcal infection or rheumatic fever. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each laboratory test in diagnosing specific conditions enhances a nurse's ability to provide comprehensive care to pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders like rheumatic fever. Knowing which tests are appropriate for specific conditions can lead to timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment interventions.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse has provided home care instructions to the parents of a child who is being discharged after cardiac surgery. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further instructions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, option B, "I can apply lotion or powder to the incision if it is itchy," indicates a need for further instructions. This statement is incorrect because applying lotion or powder to a surgical incision can introduce foreign substances and increase the risk of infection, which is crucial to avoid in the post-operative period. Option A is correct because a balance of rest and exercise is essential for the child's recovery after cardiac surgery. It promotes healing while preventing complications like blood clots. Option C is correct as activities that could result in falls should be avoided to prevent injury to the surgical site and ensure the child's safety during the initial healing phase. Option D is correct as crowded places like malls or grocery stores pose a risk of exposure to infections, which the child's weakened immune system may not be able to handle immediately after surgery. It is crucial to educate parents on post-operative care to ensure the child's optimal recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Providing clear instructions and addressing misconceptions, like the one in option B, are vital components of pediatric nursing education in cardiovascular disorders.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a child with Kawasaki disease. A student nurse who is on the unit asks if there are medications to treat the disease. The nurse’s best response to the student nurse is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In treating Kawasaki disease, the correct answer is C) Immunoglobulin G and aspirin. Immunoglobulin G helps to reduce the risk of coronary artery abnormalities associated with Kawasaki disease, while aspirin is used to manage inflammation and reduce the risk of blood clot formation. Option A) Immunoglobulin G and ACE inhibitors is incorrect because ACE inhibitors are not typically used in the treatment of Kawasaki disease. Option B) Immunoglobulin and heparin is incorrect because heparin is not a standard treatment for Kawasaki disease. Option D) Immunoglobulin and ibuprofen is incorrect because ibuprofen is not recommended in Kawasaki disease treatment due to its potential to worsen the risk of coronary artery aneurysms. In an educational context, it is crucial for nursing students to understand the rationale behind treatment choices for pediatric cardiovascular disorders like Kawasaki disease. This knowledge helps ensure safe and effective care for pediatric patients, highlighting the importance of evidence-based practice in pediatric pharmacology.