A parent and 4-year-old child who recently emigrated from Colombia arrive at the pediatric clinic. The child has a temperature of 102°F, is irritable, and has a runny nose. Inspection reveals a rash and several small, red, irregularly shaped spots with blue-white centers in the mouth. What illness does the nurse suspect the child has?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should suspect measles in this child. The presence of a high fever, irritability, runny nose, rash, and Koplik spots (small, red spots with blue-white centers in the mouth) are classic signs of measles. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications if not managed promptly. Chickenpox (choice B) presents with a different rash pattern and does not typically involve Koplik spots. Fifth disease (choice C) and scarlet fever (choice D) also have distinct clinical presentations and are not characterized by the specific symptoms described in this case.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Offering a choice between two options allows the child to feel a sense of control while ensuring they get the necessary fluids. Providing a choice empowers the child and increases the likelihood of cooperation. Distracting the child with food or offering the glass in a firm manner may not address the underlying issue of refusal. Allowing the child to witness the parent's anger can create a negative environment and may not help in resolving the situation positively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a 3-year-old hospitalized child wets the bed during a nap, the nurse should respond by changing the child's clothes without discussing the incident. This approach helps to maintain the child's dignity, avoid embarrassment, and reduce anxiety about bedwetting. Asking the child to help remake the bed (Choice A) may not be developmentally appropriate for a 3-year-old and could potentially lead to further distress. Putting clean sheets on the bed over a rubber sheet (Choice B) addresses the aftermath but does not directly address the child's needs and feelings. Explaining that children should call the nurse when they need to go to the bathroom (Choice D) may not be effective in this situation as the child may not have control over bedwetting during sleep.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Pegs and pounding boards are recommended as play materials for toddlers to express their anger in a constructive manner. These tools provide a safe and effective outlet for the child's emotions through physical activity. Options A, B, and C do not offer the same interactive and expressive qualities that pegs and pounding boards provide. A ball and bat may encourage aggressive behavior, a wad of clay is more suitable for creative expression rather than anger management, and a punching bag may promote violent behavior which is not appropriate for toddlers.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention essential before surgery for an infant with Hirschsprung disease is maintaining NPO (nothing by mouth) status. This is important to prevent aspiration during and after the surgical procedure. Administering antibiotics (Choice A) may be necessary in some cases but is not the priority intervention before surgery. Ensuring bowel rest (Choice B) is not directly related to preparing for surgery and may not be the most critical intervention. Performing regular enemas (Choice C) is not recommended before surgery for Hirschsprung disease as it can aggravate the condition.