ATI RN
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Nursing Interventions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The most common cause of facial swelling without facial tenderness or erythema in the maxillary area of a 12-year-old is
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a 12-year-old presenting with facial swelling without tenderness or erythema in the maxillary area, the most common cause is an abscessed tooth (Option B). This is due to the proximity of dental structures to the facial soft tissues. Dental abscesses can cause localized swelling as a result of infection spreading into the surrounding tissues. Option A, localized trauma, would typically present with a history of injury and visible signs of trauma. Option C, a bee sting, would likely have associated pain, redness, and a history of exposure to a bee. Option D, Haemophilus influenzae type b, is more commonly associated with systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise rather than isolated facial swelling. In pediatric gastrointestinal nursing, understanding common causes of facial swelling in children is crucial for accurate assessment and intervention. Knowing the distinguishing features of various etiologies helps in appropriate triaging, management, and referral to the appropriate healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. Identifying dental issues promptly can prevent complications and alleviate the child's discomfort.
Question 2 of 5
Potential causes of constipation include all of the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pediatric gastrointestinal nursing, understanding the potential causes of constipation is crucial for providing effective care to children. In this scenario, the correct answer is D) ibuprofen. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is not typically associated with causing constipation in children. Hypothyroidism (option A), hypokalemia (option B), and lead poisoning (option C) are well-known causes of constipation in children. Hypothyroidism can lead to a decreased metabolic rate, impacting bowel movements. Hypokalemia, a low level of potassium in the blood, can affect muscle function, including the muscles responsible for bowel movements. Lead poisoning can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, due to its toxic effects on the body. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to be aware of the various causes of constipation in children to provide timely and appropriate interventions. By understanding the differences in how each condition affects the gastrointestinal system, nurses can better assess, plan, and implement care for pediatric patients experiencing constipation. This knowledge ensures comprehensive and individualized care for children with gastrointestinal issues.
Question 3 of 5
Gastroesophageal reflux in children may be associated with all of the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pediatric gastrointestinal nursing, understanding gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and its associated conditions is crucial. In this context, the correct answer is D) pylorospasm. Rationale: A) Sandifer syndrome: This condition is associated with GER where children exhibit abnormal posturing to relieve discomfort. It is a recognized manifestation of GER, making it a relevant association. B) Esophagitis: GER can lead to esophagitis due to the repeated exposure of stomach acid to the esophageal lining, causing inflammation. Esophagitis is a common complication of GER. C) Aspiration pneumonia: GER can result in the aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. This is a severe complication associated with GER. D) Pylorospasm: Pylorospasm is not directly associated with GER. Pylorospasm involves the spasm of the pylorus, the muscular valve at the lower end of the stomach, which can cause issues with gastric emptying but is not typically linked to GER. Educational Context: Understanding these associations is vital for pediatric nurses to provide comprehensive care for children with GER. Recognizing symptoms and complications allows for timely interventions and prevention of further health issues. By differentiating between conditions like pylorospasm, nurses can tailor interventions to address specific concerns related to GER in pediatric patients.
Question 4 of 5
A 5-year-old has a history of chronic recurrent abdominal pain and emesis. A diagnosis of cyclic vomiting was made at 3 years of age. Therapy with antimigraine medications was unsuccessful. During each episode, the serum ammonia, pH, glucose, and bicarbonate were normal. He now manifests bile-stained emesis, a tender distended abdomen, and bright-red blood per rectum. The most likely diagnosis is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most likely diagnosis in this case is D) superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS). SMAS occurs when the duodenum becomes compressed between the superior mesenteric artery and the aorta, leading to symptoms such as bile-stained emesis, abdominal distention, and bright-red blood per rectum. In this scenario, the history of chronic recurrent abdominal pain and emesis, along with the new symptoms, point towards SMAS as the most likely diagnosis. Option A) stress ulcers do not fit the clinical presentation as stress ulcers typically do not present with bile-stained emesis or bright-red blood per rectum. Option B) intussusception is less likely given the chronic nature of the symptoms and the absence of classic signs such as a palpable mass. Option C) malrotation typically presents earlier in infancy and would not explain the symptoms described in the scenario. Understanding pediatric gastrointestinal conditions is crucial for pediatric nurses as these conditions can have serious consequences if not promptly recognized and managed. By knowing the distinguishing features of conditions like SMAS, nurses can advocate for appropriate diagnostic tests and interventions to provide optimal care for pediatric patients with gastrointestinal issues.
Question 5 of 5
A 1-day-old neonate of 35 weeks of gestational age presents with drooling and respiratory distress. A nasogastric tube is placed, oxygen is given, and a chest x-ray obtained. After reviewing the chest x-ray, Figure 17-1, the most likely diagnosis is
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) tracheoesophageal fistula. In this scenario, the neonate's presentation of drooling and respiratory distress along with the chest x-ray findings (Figure 17-1) indicating air in the gastrointestinal tract and a coiled nasogastric tube suggest a tracheoesophageal fistula. This congenital anomaly involves an abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus, leading to symptoms like choking, coughing, and respiratory distress when feeding. Option A) meconium aspiration pneumonia is less likely as there are no signs of meconium in the airways on the chest x-ray. Option C) tetralogy of Fallot is a cardiac defect and would not typically present with drooling and respiratory distress. Option D) foreign body would not explain the presence of air in the gastrointestinal tract on the x-ray. Understanding pediatric gastrointestinal disorders and anomalies is crucial for nurses working with neonates. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of tracheoesophageal fistula is essential for prompt diagnosis and intervention to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes for the neonate. Regular review and practice of interpreting diagnostic tests like chest x-rays are vital skills for pediatric nurses.