Pediatric HESI 2024

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A cough is a common clinical manifestation of pneumonia. Pneumonia often presents with symptoms such as cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. The inflammation and infection in the lungs lead to the characteristic cough observed in patients with pneumonia. Diarrhea, rash, and vomiting are not typically associated with pneumonia and are less likely to be observed in a child with this condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Antifungals. Candidal diaper rash is caused by a yeast infection and is best treated with antifungal agents. Corticosteroids (choice A) may worsen fungal infections by suppressing the immune response. Antibiotics (choice C) are used to treat bacterial infections, not fungal infections like candidal diaper rash. Retinoids (choice D) are not typically used to treat candidal diaper rash in infants; they are more commonly used for dermatological conditions like acne.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention for a child experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation. Bronchodilators help to dilate the airways quickly, providing immediate relief by opening up the narrowed air passages in asthma. Antihistamines are not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations and may not address the underlying bronchoconstriction. Corticosteroids are important for long-term control of asthma but may take longer to have an effect compared to bronchodilators. Administering oxygen is essential for hypoxemia in asthma exacerbations, but the priority is to relieve bronchoconstriction promptly with a bronchodilator.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a 3-year-old hospitalized child wets the bed during a nap, the nurse should respond by changing the child's clothes without discussing the incident. This approach helps to maintain the child's dignity, avoid embarrassment, and reduce anxiety about bedwetting. Asking the child to help remake the bed (Choice A) may not be developmentally appropriate for a 3-year-old and could potentially lead to further distress. Putting clean sheets on the bed over a rubber sheet (Choice B) addresses the aftermath but does not directly address the child's needs and feelings. Explaining that children should call the nurse when they need to go to the bathroom (Choice D) may not be effective in this situation as the child may not have control over bedwetting during sleep.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: After a cardiac catheterization, the priority nursing care for a 3-year-old child is monitoring the site for bleeding. This is essential to promptly identify and address any signs of bleeding or hematoma formation, which are potential complications of the procedure. Encouraging early ambulation may be beneficial post-procedure but ensuring site integrity takes precedence. Restricting fluids until blood pressure stabilization is not a standard post-catheterization practice, as adequate hydration is crucial for recovery. Comparing the blood pressure of both lower extremities is not a priority immediate nursing action after a cardiac catheterization in a pediatric patient.