The nurse has determined the rate of both the child's radial pulse and heart. What is the normal finding when comparing the two rates?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a normal healthy individual, the rate of the radial pulse (peripheral pulse) and the heart rate (apical pulse) should be the same. This is because each heartbeat should result in a corresponding pulse felt at the radial artery in the wrist. The pulse is generated by the heart's contraction and the subsequent ejection of blood into the arteries, causing a wave of pressure that can be felt as the pulse. Therefore, in a healthy individual, the radial pulse rate should match the heart rate. If there is a significant difference between the two rates, it may indicate a cardiovascular abnormality or other underlying health condition that warrants further investigation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most likely cause of her chief complaint this morning is a frequent complication of the hypophysectomy. A hypophysectomy is the surgical removal of the pituitary gland. One common complication following a hypophysectomy is diabetes insipidus, characterized by polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst). This occurs because the removal of the pituitary gland can disrupt the regulation of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which plays a key role in maintaining water balance in the body. Therefore, it is the most likely cause of the patient's chief complaint of polyuria this morning.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect where there is an abnormal opening in the atrial septum, leading to a left-to-right shunt of blood. This shunt causes increased pulmonary blood flow, as oxygenated blood from the left atrium is shunted back into the right atrium and then into the pulmonary circulation. Over time, this increased pulmonary blood flow can lead to pulmonary hypertension and potentially Eisenmenger syndrome if left untreated. Pulmonic stenosis, tricuspid atresia, and transposition of the great arteries all typically result in decreased pulmonary blood flow rather than increased pulmonary blood flow.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cellulitis is a common skin infection that is often caused by bacteria, primarily Streptococcus or Staphylococcus organisms. These bacteria typically enter the skin through a crack or break, such as a cut, insect bite, or scratch. Once inside the skin, they can cause inflammation and infection, leading to symptoms such as redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential to clear the infection and prevent complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rectal temperatures are not recommended in newborns because they can potentially cause perforation of the rectal mucosa. Newborns have fragile, delicate tissues in the rectal area, and the insertion of a rectal thermometer may lead to injury or damage to the mucosal lining. It is important to exercise caution and use alternative methods for taking temperatures in newborns to avoid any harm or discomfort.