Pediatric HESI 2024

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A common clinical manifestation of bacterial meningitis is a positive Kernig sign, which indicates meningeal irritation. Kernig sign is elicited when the leg is bent at the hip and knee at 90-degree angles, and pain and resistance are felt with extension at the knee due to inflamed meninges. Options A, B, and C are not typically associated with bacterial meningitis. A rash is more commonly seen in viral illnesses, photophobia can be present but is not specific to bacterial meningitis, and jaundice is not a typical clinical manifestation of this condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the patient has requested not to be touched, indicating a need for sensitivity and understanding. Asking a female EMT-B to attempt to assess the patient is the most appropriate initial action as it respects the patient's need for privacy, comfort, and potentially reduces re-traumatization. Asking the patient to sign a release form (Choice A) is not suitable as it disregards the patient's immediate concerns. Explaining to the patient that she must be examined (Choice C) may further distress her and violate her autonomy. Transporting the patient without performing an assessment (Choice D) ignores the patient's expressed wishes and may lead to inadequate care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. At the age of 8, children are typically eager to take on responsibilities and participate in self-care activities. This is a crucial developmental characteristic to consider when educating a child about managing a chronic condition like type 1 diabetes. Choice A is incorrect as children at this age are usually in the concrete operational stage, not abstract level, of cognition. Choice B is incorrect because while peer influence is important, it does not reach its peak at this age. Choice D is incorrect as exploring self-identity is more characteristic of adolescence, not 8-year-old children.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Preventing cardiac overload. Infants are highly vulnerable to fluid overload, making it essential to carefully monitor IV flow rates to prevent complications such as cardiac overload. Rapid administration of IV fluids can lead to an excessive increase in circulating volume, potentially causing cardiac strain or heart failure in infants. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Monitoring the IV flow rate is not primarily aimed at limiting output, replacing lost fluids, or avoiding IV infiltration in this scenario. The key concern is to prevent the risk of cardiac overload due to the infant's susceptibility to fluid imbalances.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Antifungal agents are the appropriate treatment for candidal diaper rash as it is a fungal infection. Corticosteroids, antibiotics, and retinoids are not indicated for this condition. Corticosteroids may worsen fungal infections, antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, and retinoids are typically used for acne and skin conditions unrelated to candidal diaper rash.