Why is the specific gravity for infants lower than for older children?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Infants' kidneys are less able to concentrate urine. This is because infants have immature renal systems compared to older children. The developing kidneys of infants are not as efficient at concentrating urine, leading to a lower specific gravity. Option A) Infants having a greater body surface area is not directly related to specific gravity but is more linked to heat regulation and drug absorption. Option B) Infants having a higher basal metabolic rate is also not directly related to specific gravity but refers to the rate at which the body uses energy at rest. Option C) Infants having a greater percentage of body weight that is water is partially correct but does not fully explain the lower specific gravity. While infants do have a higher percentage of body weight as water, the main reason for the lower specific gravity is the immaturity of their kidneys. In an educational context, understanding the differences in renal function between infants and older children is crucial for pediatric nursing. Nurses must be aware of the physiological differences in order to provide appropriate care and monitor the hydration status of infants effectively. This knowledge helps in assessing and managing fluid balance and kidney function in pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the effects of medications like furosemide (Lasix) is crucial. The correct answer is C) Decrease BP. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by increasing urine output, leading to fluid and electrolyte loss. This diuretic effect can result in a decrease in blood pressure due to reduced circulating volume. Option A) Decrease pulse is incorrect because furosemide does not directly affect heart rate. Option B) Decrease temperature is incorrect as furosemide does not typically impact body temperature. Option D) Decrease respiratory rate is also incorrect as furosemide does not have a direct effect on respiratory function. Educationally, it's important to understand the expected outcomes and side effects of medications used in pediatric patients to provide safe and effective care. Monitoring for changes in vital signs and clinical manifestations after administering medications like furosemide is essential to assess the drug's effectiveness and ensure patient safety. This question highlights the need for nurses to be vigilant in monitoring pediatric patients receiving diuretic therapy to prevent potential complications related to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary and most serious adverse effect of heparin is bleeding. However, discolored urine can indicate bleeding into the urinary tract, which is a potential adverse effect of heparin therapy. While changes in heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) can occur due to various reasons, discolored urine specifically points towards a potential adverse effect related to heparin therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Gardasil does not cure existing HPV infections. Gardasil is a preventive vaccine and does not treat existing infections. Choice B is correct as regular Pap screenings are still necessary even after vaccination. Choice C is also correct as Gardasil can prevent genital warts. Choice D is correct as Gardasil does not protect against all types of HPV. Therefore, option A is the statement that indicates the need for more teaching.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct medication that the nurse would anticipate administering is A) Naloxone (Narcan). Morphine sulfate is an opioid analgesic that can cause respiratory depression as a side effect. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can quickly reverse the effects of opioids like morphine, including respiratory depression. Administering Naloxone can help restore the patient's respiratory rate back to normal. Option B) Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) is used as a mucolytic agent to help break down mucus in conditions like COPD and cystic fibrosis, not for reversing opioid-induced respiratory depression. Option C) Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) is a corticosteroid used for its anti-inflammatory properties and would not be the appropriate intervention for opioid-induced respiratory depression. Option D) Protamine Sulfate is used to reverse the effects of heparin, an anticoagulant, and is not indicated for opioid overdose. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to be able to identify signs of opioid overdose, such as respiratory depression, and know the appropriate interventions such as administering Naloxone. Understanding pharmacological interventions for common post-operative complications is essential for providing safe and effective patient care in pediatric nursing.