Pediatrics HESI 2023

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Initiating pain assessment with a standardized pain scale is crucial in effectively managing pain during a sickle cell crisis. This initial step helps the nurse understand the severity of the pain, which guides subsequent interventions. Administering medications, such as NSAIDs or meperidine, should only be done after a thorough pain assessment to ensure appropriate and individualized treatment. Using guided imagery and therapeutic touch may be beneficial as adjunct interventions, but they should not replace the essential first step of assessing the pain level accurately.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct preoperative intervention for a child with appendicitis scheduled for surgery is to monitor for signs of infection. This is crucial to ensure that any potential infections are promptly identified and managed before surgery. Administering antibiotics, maintaining strict NPO status, and encouraging fluid intake are important interventions in various clinical situations but are not the priority in this scenario. Administering antibiotics may be part of the treatment plan but is typically prescribed by a physician. Maintaining NPO status is important to prevent complications related to anesthesia but may not directly address the specific needs of a child with appendicitis. Encouraging fluid intake is generally beneficial for hydration but may not be the primary concern before surgery for appendicitis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct priority intervention for a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis is to place a tracheotomy set at the bedside. Acute laryngotracheobronchitis can lead to airway obstruction, making it essential to have the equipment readily available in case of emergency. Padding the side rails, arranging for a quiet room, or obtaining a recliner for a parent are not the immediate priorities in managing a child with this condition.

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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'The child has given up fighting and accepts the separation.' This response indicates that the child is emotionally withdrawing due to the separation from the parent during hospitalization. Choice A is incorrect because the child's behavior does not necessarily suggest repressed feelings for the parent. Choice B is incorrect as feeling safe due to established routines does not fully explain the child's behavior. Choice D is incorrect because while feeling better physically may contribute to improved behavior, it does not address the emotional aspect of the child's reaction to the parent.