Which medical condition does NOT cause anxiety in a child?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding how different medical conditions and environmental factors can impact a child's emotional well-being is crucial. In this question, the correct answer is D) Carbonated beverages, as they do not directly cause anxiety in a child. Carbonated beverages are not known to have a direct physiological effect on anxiety levels in children. On the other hand, options A, B, and C can all contribute to anxiety in children. - Option A, Antihistamines, can cause drowsiness as a side effect, which may lead to feelings of fatigue or lethargy rather than anxiety. - Option B, Hypoparathyroidism, is a medical condition that can lead to low calcium levels, which may manifest as muscle cramps, tingling sensations, and even seizures, all of which can be distressing for a child. - Option C, Prolonged school absences, can cause social isolation, academic challenges, and feelings of falling behind peers, all of which are common triggers for anxiety in children. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing the various factors that can influence a child's emotional state. It reinforces the need for pediatric nurses to have a comprehensive understanding of both medical conditions and psychosocial factors that can impact a child's mental health. By understanding these nuances, nurses can provide holistic care that addresses not only the physical but also the emotional needs of their pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding childhood psychosis is crucial for providing appropriate care. The correct answer, "D) Acutephobic hallucination," is not typically associated with childhood psychosis. Hallucinations involving fear or anxiety, such as acutephobic hallucinations, are not commonly seen in childhood psychosis presentations. Option A, "Delusions," refers to fixed false beliefs, which are a common symptom of psychosis. Children with psychosis may experience delusions that are not based on reality. Option B, "Loss of reality testing," is another hallmark of psychosis where individuals struggle to distinguish between what is real and what is not. This is a key feature in diagnosing psychosis in children. Option C, "Disorganized speech," is also a common symptom of childhood psychosis. Children may exhibit speech that is incoherent, fragmented, or illogical due to their disorganized thought process. Educationally, it is important for nursing students to grasp the distinguishing features of childhood psychosis to provide early intervention and support. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the differences between various manifestations of psychosis are critical for effective nursing care in pediatric settings. By reviewing and understanding these distinctions, nurses can better advocate for children experiencing mental health challenges and ensure appropriate treatment and support are provided.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) separation anxiety. In this scenario, the child's fear of being injured during transport to school and expressing it to teachers and parents indicates separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is a developmentally normal fear experienced by children when separated from their primary caregivers or familiar surroundings. This fear often manifests as concerns about safety and well-being when apart from their attachment figures. Option A) nonpathological anxiety is incorrect because the child's fear is related to separation from his father and is developmentally appropriate. Option B) school phobia refers to an intense fear or refusal to attend school due to various reasons like social anxiety or specific phobias, which is not the case here. Option D) generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, not just separation from caregivers. Understanding childhood anxiety disorders and their presentations is crucial for pediatric nurses as they play a vital role in early identification, intervention, and support for children and families dealing with such issues. Recognizing separation anxiety helps nurses provide appropriate education and support to both the child and the family to address the underlying concerns and promote healthy coping strategies.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) hypomanic episode. In diagnosing a major depressive episode according to the DSM-5 criteria, the presence of a hypomanic episode would actually indicate a different mood disorder, such as bipolar disorder, rather than major depressive disorder. B) Depressed mood is a key diagnostic criterion for major depressive episode, characterized by feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability. C) Loss of interest or pleasure, known as anhedonia, is another hallmark symptom of major depressive episode, where individuals lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. D) Significant weight loss is also a common symptom seen in major depressive episodes, along with changes in appetite, either increase or decrease. In an educational context, understanding the diagnostic criteria for mood disorders is crucial for nurses working with pediatric patients. Recognizing these symptoms can help in early identification, appropriate referral, and intervention to support the mental health of children and adolescents. It is important for nurses to be able to differentiate between different mood disorders to provide optimal care and support to their pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most important next action in this scenario is to conduct lead level testing (Option C). Lead exposure has been associated with developmental delays, behavioral problems, and cognitive impairments in children. Children with ASD may be at higher risk for lead exposure due to their behavior patterns, such as pica eating habits. Identifying and addressing lead exposure is crucial in managing the child's overall health and development. Physical examination for dysmorphic features (Option A) may be important in assessing for certain genetic disorders but is not the most pressing concern in this case. Hearing tests (Option B) are important but are not the priority given the child's specific symptoms and risk factors. Wood's lamp (Option D) is used to assess for certain skin conditions and is not relevant to the child's presentation of delayed speech and behavioral concerns. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of considering environmental factors and potential comorbidities in children with developmental disorders like ASD. It underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to assessment and management that takes into account the specific needs and risks of each individual child. By understanding the rationale behind prioritizing lead level testing in this case, healthcare providers can improve their ability to provide holistic and effective care for children with ASD.