A healthcare professional is preparing to insert an intravenous catheter for a 7-year-old child. Which of the following actions should the professional take?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Applying an anesthetic cream to the insertion site 1 hr before the procedure is crucial when inserting an intravenous catheter in a child to minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure. This practice is especially important in pediatric patients to ensure a more comfortable experience and improve cooperation during the insertion process.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an infant with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), maintaining a patent airway is crucial. Suctioning the nasopharynx as needed helps clear secretions, prevent airway obstruction, and promote effective breathing. This intervention can aid in improving the infant's respiratory status and overall comfort.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for an infant with hyperbilirubinemia receiving phototherapy, turning and repositioning the infant every 4 hours is crucial. This action helps ensure even distribution of the phototherapy's therapeutic effects on the infant's skin, aiding in the breakdown of excess bilirubin and preventing pressure injuries. Option A is incorrect as dressing the infant in light, breathable clothing is generally recommended for comfort but is not as directly related to the effectiveness of phototherapy as repositioning. Option C, offering frequent, small feedings, while important for overall infant care, is not specifically related to managing hyperbilirubinemia with phototherapy. Option D, avoiding lotions on the infant's skin, is important to prevent interference with the effectiveness of phototherapy, but the critical action in this scenario is repositioning to optimize therapy. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind repositioning in phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia is essential for pediatric nurses to provide safe and effective care to infants. This knowledge ensures optimal outcomes and prevents complications associated with hyperbilirubinemia treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "Monitor the infant's heart rate prior to administering the medication," is the correct instruction to provide to the parent of an infant with a new prescription for digoxin. Digoxin is a medication commonly prescribed for infants with heart conditions to help regulate their heart rate. Monitoring the infant's heart rate before administering the medication is crucial because digoxin can affect the heart rate, and giving it when the heart rate is too low can be dangerous. Option A, "Repeat the dose if the infant vomits," is incorrect because if the infant vomits after taking digoxin, the dose should not be repeated. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if vomiting occurs to determine the next steps. Option B, "Mix the medication with food," is incorrect because digoxin should be administered on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness. Option C, "Give the medication with meals," is also incorrect because, as mentioned earlier, digoxin should be given on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Educationally, it is important to emphasize to parents the specific instructions for administering medications to infants, especially ones like digoxin that can have significant effects on the child's health. Parents should be encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification from healthcare providers if they are unsure about how to administer medications properly. This helps prevent medication errors and ensures the safety and well-being of the infant.