Pediatrics HESI 2023

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most important nursing intervention for a child with leukemia receiving chemotherapy is to monitor for signs of infection. Chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, putting the child at a higher risk of developing infections. Early detection and prompt treatment of infections are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes. Monitoring for signs of bleeding (choice B), dehydration (choice C), and pain (choice D) are also important aspects of care, but in this scenario, the priority is to prevent and manage infections due to the compromised immune system.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A spiral fracture is characterized by a twisting injury, often indicating child abuse due to the mechanism involved. This type of fracture is commonly seen in non-accidental trauma cases. Plastic deformity is not typically seen on radiographs but refers to a change in the shape of a bone without breaking. Buckle fractures are incomplete fractures commonly seen in children due to their softer bones. Greenstick fractures are also incomplete fractures, but they do not typically raise suspicion of child abuse as spiral fractures do.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Epicanthal folds are a common physical feature seen in individuals with Down syndrome. These are folds of skin that cover the inner corners of the eyes. Webbed neck (Choice B) is associated with Turner syndrome, not Down syndrome. Enlarged head (Choice C) is not a typical physical characteristic of Down syndrome. Polydactyly (Choice D) is the presence of extra fingers or toes, which is not specifically related to Down syndrome.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is administering pancreatic enzymes. In cystic fibrosis, there is a deficiency in pancreatic enzymes, leading to poor digestion and malabsorption of nutrients. Administering pancreatic enzymes is essential to ensure proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Providing respiratory therapy and nutritional support are important aspects of care for a child with cystic fibrosis, but addressing the pancreatic enzyme deficiency takes priority in this scenario. Encouraging physical activity is beneficial for overall health but is not the priority intervention in this case.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a dysrhythmia is suspected, an important nursing responsibility is to count the apical pulse for 1 full minute and then compare this rate with the radial pulse rate. This method helps in identifying dysrhythmias as it allows for a direct comparison of the heart's rhythm at two different pulse points. Ordering an immediate electrocardiogram (Choice A) may be necessary but should not be the first step. Counting the radial pulse multiple times (Choice B) is not as accurate as comparing rates directly. Having someone else take the radial pulse simultaneously (Choice D) may introduce errors and inconsistencies in the measurement.