A mother of a well 2-year-old girl with thumb-sucking behavior is worried that the behavior may continue or cause dental problems. Of the following, the BEST response is to

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The best response in this scenario is option B) leave the behavior as complications usually start after 5 years. This option is the most appropriate because thumb-sucking is a common behavior in young children and typically resolves on its own by the age of 5 without causing significant dental issues. It is crucial to reassure the mother that this behavior is normal and usually self-limiting. Option A) reassurance to mother is a close contender but lacks the specific information regarding the typical timeline for resolution of thumb-sucking behavior. It is important for the mother to understand the natural course of this behavior to alleviate her concerns. Option C) ignore thumb-sucking and encourage a substituted behavior may not be the best approach as forcing a child to stop thumb-sucking abruptly or replacing it with another behavior could lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Option D) the use of bitter ointments will resolve the problem early is not recommended as it may be harsh and ineffective in addressing the underlying causes of thumb-sucking behavior. In an educational context, it is essential for healthcare providers to understand the developmental norms and variations in children's behaviors to provide appropriate guidance and support to parents. By explaining the natural history of thumb-sucking and offering reassurance, healthcare professionals can empower parents to effectively manage common childhood behaviors.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing and the evaluation of a toddler for autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), the recommended evaluation includes physical examination for dysmorphic features to assess for any physical abnormalities that may be associated with certain genetic disorders often comorbid with ASD, hearing tests to rule out hearing impairments that could affect social interaction and communication, and brain CT to look for any structural abnormalities. The incorrect option, D) Wood's lamp, is not a standard or relevant tool in the evaluation of ASD. A Wood's lamp is a diagnostic tool primarily used in dermatology to examine the skin under ultraviolet light, typically to detect fungal or bacterial infections, pigment disorders, or other skin conditions. It is not a standard part of the evaluation for ASD in toddlers. Understanding which diagnostic tools are appropriate for specific assessments is crucial in pediatric nursing to ensure accurate evaluations and appropriate care plans for children. It is important to be able to differentiate between tools used for various assessments to provide optimal care for pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the implications of a single umbilical artery in a newborn is crucial for providing optimal care. The correct answer, B) occult renal anomaly, is the most appropriate choice because a single umbilical artery is associated with genitourinary abnormalities, particularly renal anomalies. This condition warrants further investigation and monitoring to ensure early detection and intervention if needed. Option A) meningomyelocle is incorrect because it is a neural tube defect and not directly related to the presence of a single umbilical artery. Option C) omphalocele and Option D) gastroschisis are both abdominal wall defects and are not specifically linked to the presence of a single umbilical artery in the newborn. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing physical findings in newborns that may indicate underlying anomalies. It underscores the need for thorough assessments and understanding the potential implications of certain anatomical variations in infants. By knowing these associations, pediatric nurses can play a key role in early identification and management of potential health concerns in newborns.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the implications of large for gestational age (LGA) newborns is crucial for providing appropriate care. The correct answer, D) developmental retardation, is not typically increased in LGA newborns. LGA infants are born with excessive weight, which can lead to various complications, but developmental retardation is not directly associated with being LGA. Option A) cephalohematoma may be increased in LGA newborns due to the trauma during birth caused by the baby's size. Option B) hypocalcemia and C) hypoglycemia are common in LGA infants due to the metabolic demands placed on their bodies. These conditions often result from the baby's body being unable to regulate blood sugar and calcium levels effectively, leading to potential complications. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the risks and complications associated with LGA newborns. Nurses need to be able to recognize these potential issues early to provide timely interventions and prevent further complications. By grasping the differences in care needs for LGA infants, nurses can improve outcomes and ensure comprehensive care for these vulnerable patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is crucial due to its impact on newborns. The correct answer, option B, is that in most cases, the symptoms and signs of RDS do not reach a peak within 7 days. This is true because RDS typically peaks within the first 48-72 hours of life. Option A is incorrect because signs of RDS usually appear within minutes to hours of birth, not minutes. Option C is incorrect because apnea and irregular respirations are indeed ominous signs of RDS, indicating severe respiratory distress. Option D is incorrect because improvement in RDS is not typically heralded by spontaneous diuresis, but rather by improved respiratory status, oxygenation, and lung compliance. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing the signs and progression of RDS in neonates. Understanding the timeline of symptom presentation and the indicators of improvement in RDS is essential for nurses caring for newborns at risk for or affected by this condition. By grasping these nuances, nurses can provide timely and appropriate interventions to optimize outcomes for infants with RDS.