Austin, age 6 months, has six teeth. The nurse should recognize that this is which of the following?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Earlier-than-normal tooth eruption. At 6 months old, having six teeth is considered early tooth eruption. In pediatric dentistry, the usual timeline for primary teeth eruption is between 6 to 12 months, with most infants having their first tooth around 6-7 months. This situation is not considered abnormal, dangerous, or delayed. It is crucial for pediatric nurses to understand typical developmental milestones, including tooth eruption patterns, to provide appropriate care and guidance to parents. Option A) Normal tooth eruption is incorrect because having six teeth at 6 months is considered early. Option B) Delayed tooth eruption is incorrect as the scenario describes early rather than delayed eruption. Option C) Unusual and dangerous is incorrect as it does not align with the common understanding of tooth eruption patterns in infants. Understanding these nuances in pediatric development is vital for nurses caring for young children to provide accurate information and support to families regarding dental health and overall well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Exposure to smokeless tobacco increases the user's risk for cancers of the esophagus (Option C) due to the harmful chemicals present in these products. This is the correct answer because smokeless tobacco contains carcinogens that can directly come into contact with the esophagus, leading to the development of cancer over time. Option A, lipoid pneumonia, is not directly associated with smokeless tobacco use. Lipoid pneumonia is typically caused by inhalation or aspiration of fatty substances into the lungs, which is not a common risk factor for smokeless tobacco users. Option B, chronic cough, may occur as a result of smokeless tobacco use, but it is a more general symptom and not specifically linked to an increased risk of cancers of the esophagus. Option D, irritability, is a potential side effect of nicotine withdrawal but is not a direct consequence of smokeless tobacco use increasing the risk of esophageal cancers. In an educational context, understanding the specific health risks associated with smokeless tobacco is crucial for healthcare providers, especially pediatric nurses who may encounter young individuals experimenting with tobacco products. Educating patients and families about the dangers of smokeless tobacco can help prevent long-term health consequences such as cancer development.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) 60%. Nasal cannula is a common device used to deliver supplemental oxygen to pediatric patients. The maximum percentage of FiO2 that can be delivered via a nasal cannula is typically around 40-60%. In pediatric patients, a flow rate of 1-2 L/min can deliver approximately 24-28% oxygen, while a flow rate of 4 L/min can deliver around 35-40% oxygen. Therefore, the option C) 60% is correct as it falls within the typical range of oxygen delivery via nasal cannula in pediatric patients. Option A) 40% is incorrect as it represents the lower end of the range and may not be the maximum percentage achievable with a nasal cannula. Option B) 50% is also lower than the correct answer and falls within the lower range of oxygen delivery. Option D) 80% is too high to be delivered effectively via a nasal cannula as the mechanism of delivery is not designed to provide such high concentrations of oxygen. Understanding the percentage of FiO2 that can be delivered via a nasal cannula is crucial for pediatric nurses as they are responsible for providing safe and effective oxygen therapy to pediatric patients. Knowing the capabilities and limitations of different oxygen delivery devices is essential for ensuring appropriate oxygen therapy and preventing complications associated with incorrect oxygen delivery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, reducing the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is crucial for ensuring positive patient outcomes. The most effective strategy to reduce VAP is elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees (Option B). This position helps prevent aspiration of oral and gastric secretions, reducing the risk of pneumonia. Option A, reducing the period of ventilation, is not as effective in preventing VAP as proper positioning. While minimizing ventilation time can help reduce the risk, it may not be feasible in all cases where ventilation is necessary for the child's respiratory support. Option C, the use of a protocol for oral decontamination, is important for overall oral hygiene but may not directly address the risk of VAP as effectively as proper positioning. Oral care is essential in preventing infections, but it is not the most effective strategy for VAP specifically. Option D, liberal use of effective antibiotics, is not the primary strategy for preventing VAP. While antibiotics have a role in treating infections, their overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and may not address the root cause of VAP, which is often related to aspiration. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each option helps pediatric nurses make informed decisions in patient care. By prioritizing proper positioning to prevent VAP, nurses can provide evidence-based care that promotes positive outcomes for their pediatric patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, identifying signs of dehydration in infants is crucial for providing timely and effective care. The correct answer, "A) sunken fontanel," is a significant indicator of severe dehydration in infants. The fontanel, a soft spot on an infant's head, becomes sunken when there is a lack of fluid in the body, indicating dehydration. This is a critical sign that requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. Option B, "moist skin," is incorrect as it suggests hydration. In dehydration, the skin tends to be dry rather than moist. Option C, "normal urine output," is also incorrect because in severe dehydration, urine output decreases due to the body conserving fluids. Option D, "weight gain," is incorrect as dehydration leads to weight loss rather than weight gain. Educationally, understanding the signs of dehydration in infants is essential for nurses to assess and intervene promptly. By recognizing the significance of a sunken fontanel as a sign of severe dehydration, nurses can initiate appropriate interventions such as fluid replacement therapy to prevent potential complications like electrolyte imbalances or shock. This knowledge is fundamental in pediatric nursing practice to ensure the well-being of infants under their care.