A nurse on a pediatric unit is reviewing her client assignment following the shift report. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?
An infant who has pertussis and is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula.
A school-age child who has diabetes mellitus and requires blood glucose monitoring.
An adolescent who was admitted to the unit in sickle cell crisis and is ready for discharge instructions.
A toddler who has both arms in casts and needs to be fed his breakfast.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: An infant who has pertussis and is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula:
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can be particularly severe in infants. The fact that the infant is receiving oxygen indicates respiratory distress, which is a critical condition requiring immediate attention. Infants with pertussis are at high risk for complications such as pneumonia, apnea, and respiratory failure. Therefore, this patient should be assessed first to ensure their airway and breathing are adequately supported.
Choice B reason: A school-age child who has diabetes mellitus and requires blood glucose monitoring:
While it is important to monitor blood glucose levels in children with diabetes mellitus to prevent hypo- or hyperglycemia, this condition is generally more stable and manageable compared to the acute respiratory distress seen in the infant with pertussis. Blood glucose monitoring can be scheduled and managed, making it a lower priority in this context.
Choice C reason: An adolescent who was admitted to the unit in sickle cell crisis and is ready for discharge instructions:
Sickle cell crisis can be extremely painful and requires careful management. However, if the adolescent is ready for discharge, it indicates that their condition has stabilized. Providing discharge instructions is important but can be deferred until more critical patients are assessed.
Choice D reason: A toddler who has both arms in casts and needs to be fed his breakfast:
While this toddler requires assistance with feeding due to their casts, this situation does not pose an immediate threat to their health. Feeding can be managed after ensuring that more critical patients, such as the infant with pertussis, are stable.
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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Type and match for 2 units of packed RBCs
This option is not typically part of the initial management of sepsis. Typing and matching for blood transfusion is generally reserved for patients who are experiencing significant blood loss or severe anemia. In this case, the patient’s hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are within normal ranges, indicating that a blood transfusion is not immediately necessary. The primary focus in the first hour of sepsis management is to stabilize the patient through fluid resuscitation, infection control, and monitoring vital signs.
Choice B: Rapidly administer 30 mL/kg of normal saline
Rapid fluid resuscitation is a critical component of sepsis management. Administering 30 mL/kg of normal saline helps to restore intravascular volume, improve tissue perfusion, and prevent organ failure. This intervention is particularly important in patients with hypotension or elevated lactate levels, as it helps to maintain adequate blood pressure and oxygen delivery to tissues. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend this approach to stabilize patients and prevent further complications.
Choice C: Measure lactate level
Measuring lactate levels is essential in the early management of sepsis. Elevated lactate levels indicate tissue hypoperfusion and anaerobic metabolism, which are hallmarks of sepsis and septic shock. Monitoring lactate levels helps to assess the severity of the condition and guide further treatment decisions. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines emphasize the importance of measuring lactate levels within the first hour of sepsis recognition. If the initial lactate level is elevated, it should be remeasured to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions.
Choice D: Obtain blood cultures
Obtaining blood cultures before administering antibiotics is crucial for identifying the causative pathogen and tailoring antibiotic therapy. Blood cultures help to determine the source of infection and guide appropriate antimicrobial treatment. Early identification and targeted therapy are essential for improving patient outcomes in sepsis. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend obtaining blood cultures as part of the initial management of sepsis.
Choice E: Obtain a wound culture
Obtaining a wound culture is important in this case because the patient has a wound with purulent drainage, which could be a potential source of infection. Identifying the specific pathogen responsible for the wound infection allows for targeted antibiotic therapy, which is more effective than broad-spectrum antibiotics. This intervention helps to control the source of infection and prevent further complications. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines support source control measures, including obtaining wound cultures, as part of the initial management of sepsis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Dried fruits
Dried fruits are generally high in fiber, which can be problematic for individuals with a colostomy, especially in the initial weeks following surgery. High-fiber foods can increase stool bulk and may cause blockages or discomfort. It is recommended to avoid high-fiber foods until the digestive system has adjusted and the healthcare provider gives the go-ahead to reintroduce them gradually.
Choice B: Dried peas
Dried peas, like other legumes, are also high in fiber and can cause gas and bloating. These symptoms can be particularly uncomfortable for individuals with a colostomy. Additionally, legumes can increase the risk of blockages in the stoma. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid dried peas and other high-fiber legumes until the digestive system has fully adjusted.
Choice C: Eggs
Eggs are an excellent food choice for individuals with a colostomy. They are high in protein, which is essential for wound healing and overall recovery. Eggs are also easy to digest and do not typically cause gas or bloating. Including eggs in the diet can help ensure that the client receives adequate nutrition without causing digestive discomfort.
Choice D: Pasta
Pasta, particularly refined pasta, is generally low in fiber and easy to digest, making it a suitable food choice for individuals with a colostomy. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, which are important for energy. However, it is essential to monitor portion sizes and avoid adding high-fat or high-fiber ingredients that could cause digestive issues.
