A nurse is caring for a child with cystic fibrosis. The nurse should explain to the parents that the child will need to take which of the following on a regular basis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for a child with cystic fibrosis, it is crucial for parents to understand the necessity of their child taking digestive enzymes on a regular basis. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the production of mucus, sweat, and digestive fluids. This leads to difficulty in digesting food and absorbing nutrients, as the pancreas becomes blocked by thick mucus. Digestive enzymes help the child break down and absorb nutrients from food, aiding in proper growth and development. Option A, antibiotics, are commonly used in cystic fibrosis to treat lung infections that can occur due to the thick mucus buildup, but it is not the primary medication needed daily. Option B, insulin, is used to regulate blood sugar levels in diabetes, which can be a complication of cystic fibrosis, but it is not a direct treatment for the condition itself. Option D, inhaled steroids, are sometimes used to manage lung inflammation in cystic fibrosis, but they are not as essential as digestive enzymes for everyday management of the condition. Educationally, it is important for nurses to explain the rationale behind the daily use of digestive enzymes to parents of children with cystic fibrosis. Understanding the purpose and importance of these enzymes can help parents adhere to the treatment plan and ensure the child receives the necessary nutrients for overall health and well-being. It also empowers parents to actively participate in their child's care and advocate for their needs in various healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In caring for a child recovering from a burn injury, the priority intervention should be providing a high-protein diet to promote healing (Option A). This is because adequate protein intake is crucial for wound healing and tissue repair, especially in burn patients who have increased metabolic needs due to their injuries. Protein helps in rebuilding damaged tissues and supports the immune system during the healing process. Applying cool compresses (Option B) can provide comfort and help reduce pain temporarily, but it is not the priority over ensuring proper nutrition for healing. Administering pain medications (Option C) is important for managing pain, but it is not the priority intervention in this case. Pain relief can be optimized alongside the primary focus on nutrition. Performing frequent dressing changes (Option D) is necessary for wound care, but it is not as critical as ensuring the child receives adequate nutrition for optimal healing. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing interventions based on the specific needs of pediatric patients recovering from burn injuries. It emphasizes the significance of nutritional support in promoting healing and underscores the nurse's role in providing holistic care to support the child's recovery process. Understanding these priorities is essential for nurses working in pediatric settings to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a child with nephrotic syndrome, the nurse would expect to see swelling around the eyes and ankles (Option B) due to the loss of protein in the urine, leading to hypoalbuminemia and subsequent fluid shifting into the interstitial spaces. This edema, known as anasarca, is a hallmark symptom of nephrotic syndrome. Option A, elevated blood pressure, is not typically associated with nephrotic syndrome unless there are complications such as renal vein thrombosis or acute kidney injury. Option C, hyperactive reflexes, are not a common finding in nephrotic syndrome and typically suggest issues related to the nervous system. Option D, dry skin and mucous membranes, is not a characteristic manifestation of nephrotic syndrome. In fact, these findings are more commonly associated with dehydration or other conditions impacting skin integrity. Educationally, understanding the specific clinical manifestations of nephrotic syndrome is crucial for pediatric nurses to provide effective care, monitor for complications, and educate both the child and their family on the expected signs and symptoms. Recognizing and interpreting these symptoms accurately can guide appropriate interventions and ensure the best outcomes for the child.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In caring for a child with a history of developmental delay, promoting early intervention and therapy (Option A) is crucial and the correct choice. Early intervention programs are designed to support children's development and address delays promptly, leading to better outcomes. By providing timely therapies and interventions, the nurse can help the child reach their full potential and improve their quality of life. Encouraging independent activities (Option B) can be beneficial for children's growth but may not be the priority for a child with developmental delays who may need more targeted support and guidance. Similarly, encouraging the child to attend school as early as possible (Option C) may not be the most suitable approach if the child requires specialized educational settings or interventions that are not available in a traditional school setting. Limiting social interactions to reduce frustration (Option D) is not recommended as social interactions are essential for a child's overall development, including communication skills, emotional regulation, and social understanding. Restricting social interactions could hinder the child's progress and well-being. In an educational context, understanding the unique needs of children with developmental delays is crucial for healthcare providers. By choosing the correct option, nurses can advocate for early interventions that will positively impact the child's development trajectory and overall well-being. Supporting families in accessing appropriate resources and therapies is also a key role of nurses in pediatric care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Social communication. The diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) include persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts. This encompasses challenges in social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communicative behaviors used for social interaction, and developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships. Option A) Growth below the 5th percentile for height and weight is not a diagnostic criterion for autism. While some children with autism may also have growth issues, it is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. Option C) Gross motor development is not a primary diagnostic criteria for autism. Children with autism may vary in their gross motor skills, but this is not a core feature used to diagnose the condition. Option D) Parallel play refers to a stage of play development where children play alongside each other without engaging directly. While difficulties in social play may be observed in children with autism, it is not specific enough to be a sole diagnostic criterion. Educationally, understanding the specific diagnostic criteria for autism is essential for healthcare professionals working with children and families. By recognizing the core features of the disorder, nurses and other healthcare providers can facilitate early identification, appropriate referrals, and targeted interventions to support children with ASD and their families effectively.