ATI RN
Pediatric Respiratory Distress Nursing Interventions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the most common cause of death in neonates with congenital heart disease?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Heart failure. In neonates with congenital heart disease, heart failure is the most common cause of death. This is due to the fact that structural abnormalities in the heart can lead to inadequate heart function, resulting in heart failure. Infants with congenital heart disease are at risk of heart failure due to the inability of the heart to effectively pump blood to meet the body's demands. Option A) Arrhythmias, while common in congenital heart disease, are not the most common cause of death in neonates with this condition. Arrhythmias can cause complications, but they are not the primary cause of mortality. Option B) Sepsis is a serious concern in neonates, but it is not the most common cause of death in neonates with congenital heart disease. While sepsis can occur concurrently with heart disease, it is not the primary cause of mortality. Option D) Pulmonary hypertension can be a complication of congenital heart disease, but it is not the most common cause of death in neonates with this condition. Pulmonary hypertension can result from untreated heart defects, leading to increased pressure in the lungs, but it is not the primary cause of mortality. Educationally, understanding the common causes of mortality in neonates with congenital heart disease is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for this population. Recognizing the signs of heart failure and implementing appropriate interventions promptly can significantly impact outcomes for these vulnerable patients.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following should the nurse expect to note as a frequent complication for a child with congenital heart disease?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In pediatric patients with congenital heart disease, susceptibility to respiratory infections is a frequent complication. This is due to the altered anatomy and physiology of the heart, which can lead to inefficient oxygenation and ventilation, making these children more prone to respiratory infections. Therefore, option A is the correct answer. Option B, bleeding tendencies, is less likely to be a frequent complication in children with congenital heart disease unless they are on anticoagulant therapy or have a co-existing bleeding disorder. Option C, frequent vomiting and diarrhea, is not typically associated with congenital heart disease itself but may occur as a result of other conditions or treatments. Option D, seizure disorder, is not a common complication of congenital heart disease unless there are complications such as hypoxia or brain injury. Educationally, understanding the common complications of congenital heart disease in pediatric patients is crucial for nurses caring for these children. Recognizing these complications helps nurses provide appropriate care, monitor for potential issues, and intervene promptly to prevent further complications. It also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to care, considering both cardiac and respiratory health in these vulnerable patients.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following assessment findings would lead the nurse to suspect Down syndrome in an infant?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pediatric nursing, recognizing clinical manifestations associated with genetic conditions like Down syndrome is crucial for early detection and intervention. The correct answer is B) Transverse palmar crease. Infants with Down syndrome often present with this physical characteristic, known as the "simian crease," which is a single crease across the palm instead of the typical three creases. This finding is a significant indicator of Down syndrome and should prompt further evaluation and genetic testing. Option A) Small tongue is not typically associated with Down syndrome. However, infants with Down syndrome may have a protruding tongue due to hypotonia, not a small one. Option C) Large nose is a vague characteristic and not specific to Down syndrome. While some individuals with Down syndrome may have a slightly larger nose, it is not a definitive diagnostic feature. Option D) Restricted joint movement is not a common finding in infants with Down syndrome. Instead, joint laxity and hyperflexibility are more commonly observed due to ligamentous laxity associated with the condition. Educationally, understanding these subtle physical cues can aid nurses in identifying potential genetic conditions early, allowing for timely interventions and support for the infant and their family. It is essential for nurses to be familiar with a wide range of assessment findings associated with various conditions to provide holistic and individualized care to pediatric patients.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following should the nurse do first after noting that a child with Hirschsprung disease has a fever and watery explosive diarrhea?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Notify the physician immediately. When a child with Hirschsprung disease presents with a fever and watery explosive diarrhea, it can be indicative of an enterocolitis, a serious complication requiring prompt medical attention. Notifying the physician first is crucial as they need to assess the child's condition, possibly order diagnostic tests, and initiate appropriate treatment promptly. Delay in seeking medical intervention can lead to worsening of symptoms and potential life-threatening complications. Administering antidiarrheal medications (option B) is contraindicated in this situation as it can mask symptoms and potentially worsen the underlying condition by delaying appropriate treatment. Monitoring the child every 30 minutes (option C) is important, but it should not take precedence over notifying the physician, especially in a critical situation like this. Doing nothing and assuming it is characteristic of Hirschsprung disease (option D) is dangerous as fever and explosive watery diarrhea are not typical symptoms of this condition and could indicate a serious complication that needs immediate attention. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to potentially serious complications in pediatric patients with chronic conditions. It emphasizes the critical role of nurses in prompt assessment, communication with healthcare providers, and advocating for the best interests of the child.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse notes a swelling on the neonate's scalp that crosses the suture line. The nurse documents this condition as...
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Caput succedaneum. In a neonate, a swelling on the scalp that crosses the suture line is most likely to be a caput succedaneum. This condition is characterized by localized soft tissue edema that is present over the presenting part of the fetus at birth. It usually resolves on its own without intervention. A) Cephalic hematoma is a collection of blood between the skull and periosteum. It does not cross suture lines and is typically caused by trauma during delivery. C) Hemorrhagic edema refers to localized swelling with blood accumulation. This term is not commonly used in neonatal care for this specific presentation. D) Perinatal caput is not a recognized term in neonatal care. It does not describe the specific condition of swelling on the scalp that crosses the suture line. Educational context: Understanding the differences between these terms is crucial for nurses caring for neonates. Correctly identifying and documenting such findings can aid in appropriate treatment and monitoring of neonatal conditions. Proper documentation ensures clear communication among the healthcare team and accurate medical records for future reference.