The practical nurse is providing care for a toddler who has just returned from surgery for a tonsillectomy. Which intervention is a priority in the immediate postoperative period?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring for frequent swallowing is a priority intervention in the immediate postoperative period after a tonsillectomy. Frequent swallowing may indicate bleeding from the surgical site, which requires immediate attention to prevent complications such as hemorrhage. Offering clear fluids frequently may not be appropriate immediately after surgery. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing may increase the risk of bleeding. Applying a warm compress to the throat area is not recommended as it can increase blood flow to the surgical site, potentially causing bleeding.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Providing positive feedback to the mother for correctly administering the iron supplements is essential as it reinforces proper medication administration practices. This encouragement can help build the mother's confidence and ensure that she continues to administer the supplements correctly in the future, promoting the infant's health and well-being. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because there is no need to suggest altering the administration method, changing the liquid used, or restricting feeding immediately after administering the iron supplement. Giving positive feedback is the most appropriate action in this scenario to acknowledge the mother's correct administration technique.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When screening a 5-year-old for strabismus, directing the child through the six cardinal positions of gaze is the most appropriate action. This method helps the nurse to assess eye alignment, which is crucial in identifying any misalignment that may indicate strabismus. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Having the child identify colored patterns on polychromatic cards is more related to visual acuity testing rather than strabismus screening. Inspecting the child for the setting sun sign is not a standard method for strabismus screening. Observing the child for blank, sunken eyes is not specific to strabismus assessment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A cool, pale, and blanched foot is indicative of arterial obstruction, leading to poor blood flow. This finding requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications such as tissue damage or necrosis. Monitoring for signs of arterial compromise, such as color changes, temperature, and capillary refill, is crucial in detecting and managing vascular complications post-cardiac catheterization. Choices A, C, and D do not directly indicate arterial obstruction. While a decreasing blood pressure and rapid, irregular pulse may suggest compromise, these findings are more nonspecific. A weaker pulse distal to the femoral artery indicates reduced perfusion but not necessarily arterial obstruction. Finally, a damp, oozing pressure dressing suggests a dressing issue rather than arterial obstruction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Creamed corn is a gluten-free food, making it a suitable option for clients with celiac disease. This choice indicates effective diet teaching as it aligns with the dietary restrictions necessary for managing the condition. Pancakes, rye crackers, and cooked oatmeal contain gluten, which is harmful to individuals with celiac disease. Therefore, they are not suitable choices and would not indicate effective teaching for a client with this condition.