How will a child with respiratory distress, stridor, and a diagnosis of RSV be treated?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a child with respiratory distress, stridor, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), the appropriate treatment is nebulized racemic epinephrine (Option C). This intervention helps to reduce airway inflammation and swelling, thereby improving breathing and decreasing the risk of respiratory compromise. Intravenous antibiotics (Option A) are not indicated for RSV, which is a viral infection. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and would not address the underlying cause of the respiratory distress in this case. Intravenous steroids (Option B) may be used in some cases of croup or acute asthma exacerbation but are not the first-line treatment for RSV in a child with stridor and respiratory distress. Alternating doses of Tylenol and Motrin (Option D) may help to reduce fever and discomfort but do not directly address the respiratory distress and stridor associated with RSV. Educationally, understanding the appropriate treatment for common pediatric respiratory conditions like RSV is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers working with children. Knowing the rationale behind each treatment option helps in providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients with respiratory distress.

Correct Answer: A,C,D,E

Rationale: Rationale: Correct Answer: A) Providing a high-protein, high-calorie diet, C) Encouraging exercise, D) Minimizing pulmonary complications. 1. Providing a high-protein, high-calorie diet is essential for CF patients as they have increased energy needs due to the disease affecting nutrient absorption. This diet helps in maintaining weight and overall health. 2. Encouraging exercise is crucial for CF patients to improve lung function, strengthen respiratory muscles, and enhance overall physical well-being. It also helps in clearing mucus from the lungs. 3. Minimizing pulmonary complications involves various strategies like airway clearance techniques, using inhalers, and timely antibiotic therapy to prevent and manage infections that can worsen respiratory health in CF patients. Incorrect Answers: B) Providing a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet is not recommended for CF patients as it can lead to weight gain without providing the necessary nutrients. CF patients need a balanced diet focusing on high protein and calories. Educational Context: Understanding the therapeutic management strategies for CF patients is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers working with pediatric populations. By providing a comprehensive approach that includes nutrition, exercise, and pulmonary care, we can improve outcomes and quality of life for CF patients. Educating patients and families about these strategies empowers them to actively participate in managing the disease and promoting better health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Lateral neck x-ray of the soft tissue. The presenting symptoms of high fever, dysphagia, drooling, tachycardia, and tachypnea are indicative of a possible case of epiglottitis, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. A lateral neck x-ray is crucial in diagnosing epiglottitis as it can show the characteristic "thumb sign" caused by an enlarged epiglottis. Option A) Immediate IV placement may be necessary but is not the first action to take in this situation. The priority is to diagnose the condition accurately before initiating treatment. Option B) Immediate respiratory treatment may be needed eventually, but the first step is to confirm the diagnosis through diagnostic testing. Option C) Thorough physical assessment is important, but in this case, time is of the essence, and a prompt diagnostic test like a lateral neck x-ray is crucial for timely intervention. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to recognize the signs and symptoms of pediatric respiratory emergencies like epiglottitis. Quick and accurate assessment followed by appropriate diagnostic testing can make a significant difference in the outcome for the child. This question highlights the importance of prioritizing actions in emergency situations to provide safe and effective care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is option B) A 2-year-old who has had five previous ear infections. This child would benefit most from having ear tubes placed because recurrent ear infections can lead to hearing loss, speech delays, and other complications. By placing ear tubes, fluid can drain more easily, reducing the risk of infections and related issues. Option A) A 2-month-old who has had one ear infection is less likely to benefit from ear tubes as single, isolated ear infections are common in infants and may not warrant surgical intervention. Option C) A 3-year-old whose sibling has had four ear infections does not necessarily indicate a need for ear tubes in this child. Family history alone is not a strong indicator for ear tube placement. Option D) A 7-year-old who has had two ear infections this year may benefit from other interventions before considering ear tubes. The frequency of infections is lower compared to option B, and the child's age may allow for alternative treatments to be explored first. Educationally, understanding the criteria for ear tube placement is crucial for pediatric nurses to advocate for appropriate care for children with recurrent ear infections. It is essential to consider the child's age, history of infections, and potential risks and benefits of surgical interventions in collaboration with healthcare providers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Lateral neck x-ray of the soft tissue. Epiglottitis is a serious condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, which can lead to airway obstruction. A lateral neck x-ray of the soft tissue is diagnostic for epiglottitis as it can show the classic "thumb sign," indicating a swollen epiglottis. Option A) Blood test is not typically used as a diagnostic tool for epiglottitis. While some blood tests may show signs of inflammation or infection, they are not specific for diagnosing epiglottitis. Option B) Throat swab may be used to test for bacterial infections like streptococcus, but it is not specific for diagnosing epiglottitis. Option D) Signs and symptoms are important in the clinical assessment of a patient suspected of having epiglottitis, but they are not diagnostic on their own. Diagnostic imaging such as a lateral neck x-ray is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. In an educational context, understanding the diagnostic tools for conditions like epiglottitis is crucial for nurses, especially those preparing for exams like the NCLEX. Knowing which tests are appropriate for specific conditions helps nurses provide timely and accurate care to pediatric patients with respiratory issues.