All of the following may increase plasma levels of theophylline EXCEPT

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding theophylline medication and factors that can impact its plasma levels is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In this case, the correct answer is D) smoking marijuana, which does not increase plasma levels of theophylline. Theophylline is primarily metabolized by the liver through the CYP1A2 enzyme pathway. Smoking marijuana does not significantly affect this pathway or interfere with theophylline metabolism. A) Cimetidine is known to increase the plasma levels of theophylline by inhibiting its metabolism in the liver. Cimetidine can lead to theophylline toxicity if co-administered. B) Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that can inhibit the metabolism of theophylline, leading to increased plasma levels. It competes for the same liver enzyme system, which can result in elevated theophylline concentrations. C) The influenza vaccine does not have a direct impact on the plasma levels of theophylline. It is essential for preventing influenza infection, especially in pediatric patients who are more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses. Educationally, understanding drug interactions and factors affecting medication levels is crucial for pediatric nurses. By knowing which medications or substances can impact theophylline levels, nurses can prevent adverse effects and ensure proper dosing for pediatric patients with respiratory conditions like asthma. This knowledge enhances patient safety and quality of care in pediatric nursing practice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The recommended environmental modification for a 3-year-old diagnosed with atopic dermatitis is to wear cotton garments (Option C). Cotton is a breathable fabric that is less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to synthetic materials. Option A, suggesting a bland diet with minimal meats, is not directly related to managing atopic dermatitis. While diet can play a role in some skin conditions, in the case of atopic dermatitis, it is more important to focus on external irritants. Option B, installing wool carpeting instead of synthetic carpeting, is also incorrect. Wool can be a common allergen and irritant for individuals with sensitive skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Synthetic materials are generally less likely to trigger skin reactions. Option D, using soaps and detergents that are effective in removing fatty substances, is not the best environmental modification for atopic dermatitis. Harsh soaps and detergents can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to further irritation and dryness for individuals with atopic dermatitis. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to understand the specific environmental modifications that can benefit pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis. Educating caregivers about the importance of choosing soft, breathable fabrics like cotton can help minimize skin irritation and improve the child's comfort and quality of life.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the different causes of adverse food reactions is crucial for providing safe and effective care to children. In this question, the correct answer is B) Food aversion. Food aversion refers to a psychological condition where a person avoids certain foods due to a negative association, such as a bad experience or strong dislike, rather than a physiological reaction. Food additives (option A), food allergies (option C), and food poisoning (option D) are common causes of adverse food reactions in children. Food additives can trigger reactions in individuals with sensitivities or intolerances. Food allergies involve the immune system's response to specific proteins in food, leading to various symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Food poisoning occurs due to consuming contaminated or spoiled food, resulting in gastrointestinal symptoms. Educationally, it is essential for pediatric nurses to differentiate between these causes to assess and manage a child's condition accurately. By knowing that food aversion is not a physiological reaction, nurses can focus on addressing psychological factors and helping children develop a positive relationship with food. Understanding the distinctions between food aversion and other adverse food reactions enables nurses to provide holistic care and support to pediatric patients and their families.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding common causes of conditions like allergic fungal sinusitis is crucial for providing effective care to children. The correct answer, option C) Candida, is not a common cause of allergic fungal sinusitis in comparison to other fungal species. Candida is more commonly associated with oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections rather than sinusitis. Option A) Aspergillus is a common cause of allergic fungal sinusitis, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus species are frequently found in the environment and can trigger allergic reactions in the sinuses. Option B) Alternaria is a mold commonly found in the environment and can also contribute to allergic reactions in the sinuses, leading to sinusitis. Option D) Penicillium is another common cause of allergic fungal sinusitis. Exposure to Penicillium spores can lead to sinus inflammation and allergic symptoms in susceptible individuals. Educationally, understanding the different fungal species that can cause allergic fungal sinusitis is important for nurses caring for pediatric patients. This knowledge helps in accurate diagnosis, treatment, and patient education regarding environmental triggers to prevent recurrence of sinus issues. It also highlights the importance of considering fungal sources in sinusitis cases, especially in patients with persistent or recurrent symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the characteristics of dehydration is crucial for accurate assessment and timely intervention. In the context of hypertonic dehydration, option A is correct: "Skin turgor is less affected relative to the severity of dehydration." This statement is accurate because in hypertonic dehydration, there is an increased concentration of solutes outside the cells, causing water to shift out of the cells and into the extracellular space. This results in more severe intracellular dehydration than extracellular dehydration, which can make skin turgor appear less affected compared to the actual level of dehydration. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: B) Serum sodium concentration is less than 135 mmol/L: This statement is inaccurate because in hypertonic dehydration, the serum sodium concentration is typically elevated (>145 mmol/L) due to the loss of water from the cells, leading to a relative increase in sodium levels. C) Central nervous system complications are relatively infrequent: This statement is incorrect as hypertonic dehydration can lead to significant central nervous system complications such as seizures, altered mental status, and neurological deficits due to the osmotic shifts in the brain cells. D) Early onset of shock: This option is incorrect because shock is a late and severe complication of dehydration, typically seen in cases of profound fluid loss and circulatory compromise. Hypertonic dehydration may lead to shock but it is not an early onset sign. Educational Context: Understanding the specific characteristics of each type of dehydration is essential for nurses caring for pediatric patients. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hypertonic dehydration allows for prompt intervention to prevent complications. Nurses must be able to differentiate between the various types of dehydration based on clinical manifestations to provide appropriate care and treatment.