A 3-month-old is admitted with severe diarrhea. Yesterday, the infant weighed 11 pounds (5 kg). Today, this infant weighs 9 pounds, 8 ounces (4.3 kg). Based on this information, the nurse documents that the infant has:
Failure to thrive.
Malabsorption syndrome.
Severe dehydration.
Risk for fluid volume deficit.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Failure to thrive is a condition where a child does not gain weight or grow as expected. While severe diarrhea can contribute to failure to thrive, the immediate concern in this scenario is the significant weight loss indicating severe dehydration.
Choice B rationale
Malabsorption syndrome involves the inability to absorb nutrients properly, leading to malnutrition and weight loss. However, the acute weight loss in this case is more indicative of severe dehydration.
Choice C rationale
Severe dehydration is characterized by significant fluid loss, which can be life-threatening in infants. The weight loss from 11 pounds to 9 pounds, 8 ounces indicates a substantial fluid loss, pointing to severe dehydration.
Choice D rationale
Risk for fluid volume deficit is a potential diagnosis, but the significant weight loss and clinical presentation indicate that the infant is already experiencing severe dehydration.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Obtaining a throat culture is contraindicated in suspected epiglottitis. This procedure can cause further irritation and potentially lead to airway obstruction. Epiglottitis is a medical emergency, and the priority is to maintain a patent airway.
Choice B rationale
Placing the child in an upright position is the correct action. This position helps improve breathing and reduces the risk of airway obstruction. It also allows for better visualization and assessment of the child’s respiratory status.
Choice C rationale
Visualizing the epiglottis with a tongue depressor is not recommended in suspected epiglottitis. This action can cause further irritation and potentially lead to airway obstruction. The priority is to maintain a patent airway and avoid any procedures that could exacerbate the condition.
Choice D rationale
Transporting the child to radiology for a throat x-ray is not the immediate priority. While imaging may be necessary for diagnosis, the primary focus should be on maintaining a patent airway and ensuring the child’s respiratory status is stable.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the child to talk about the procedure is important for emotional support, but it is not the most critical assessment immediately after a cardiac catheterization. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.
Choice B rationale
Confirming to the child that the procedure has been completed is important for reassurance, but it is not the most critical assessment. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.
Choice C rationale
Gradually allowing the child to adapt to the lighted surroundings is not relevant to the immediate post-procedure care. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.
Choice D rationale
Checking pedal pulses frequently is the most important assessment after a cardiac catheterization via the femoral artery. It helps to ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the lower extremities and to detect any signs of arterial obstruction or complications at the catheter insertion site.