Pediatric Practice Exam HESI

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to look along the scalp line for white dots (nits) when checking for head lice. White dots/nits are the eggs of head lice and are commonly found attached to the hair shaft near the scalp. This method helps identify if head lice are present. Choice A is incorrect as itching alone may not be a definitive sign of head lice; it could be due to other reasons. Choice B is irrelevant as ear mites in dogs are not related to head lice infestation in humans. Choice D is also incorrect as observing between the fingers for red lines is not a method for checking head lice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct behavior that the nurse needs to prevent postoperatively is straining at stool. Straining at stool should be avoided as it can increase intrathoracic pressure, leading to stress on the surgical site. This stress can potentially compromise the surgical repair and increase the risk of complications. Crying, coughing, and unnecessary movement, although important to monitor postoperatively, do not directly impact the surgical site as significantly as straining at stool does. Therefore, the focus should be on preventing straining at stool to ensure the best postoperative outcome for the child.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Point tenderness is the most reliable indicator of a possible fracture in a child. It refers to localized pain at a specific point, indicating a potential bone injury. Lack of spontaneous movement (Choice A) is non-specific and can be due to various reasons. Bruising (Choice C) may be present in fractures but is not as specific as point tenderness. Inability to bear weight (Choice D) can also be seen in fractures but may not always be present, making it less reliable compared to point tenderness.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct approach for an alert 4-year-old child with a mild airway obstruction, respiratory distress, a strong cough, and normal skin color is to provide oxygen, avoid agitation, and arrange for transport. Oxygen helps support breathing, avoiding agitation prevents worsening of the obstruction, and transport ensures the child receives further medical evaluation and treatment. Choices A, C, and D involve techniques that are not recommended for a mild airway obstruction in this scenario. Back blows, abdominal thrusts, chest thrusts, and finger sweeps are interventions used for different situations and not suitable for a child with the described symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is essential for both parents to inform the child about the divorce together, using age-appropriate language. This approach can help minimize the negative impact on the child by providing a sense of unity and understanding. Choice B is incorrect because offering false reassurance about love may not address the child's concerns effectively, as the situation is complex. Choice C is not suitable as engaging in special activities cannot substitute for the emotional stability that the child may lose due to the divorce. Choice D is incorrect because sharing the parent's feelings may burden the child with adult emotions, which could be overwhelming and confusing for their developmental stage.