health assessment practice questions nursing

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: turbinates. Turbinates are bony projections in the nasal cavity that increase the surface area for the warming, humidifying, and filtering of inhaled air. Meatus (A) refers to the passages in the nasal cavity, not the projections. Septum (B) is the partition between the nostrils, not the projections. Kiesselbach's plexus (D) is a collection of blood vessels in the nasal septum, not the projections that increase surface area.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the normal eardrum of a newborn can appear thick and opaque due to the presence of vernix or desquamated epithelium. Immobility of the drum (Choice A) is not a normal finding in a newborn and could indicate a problem. An "injected" membrane (Choice B) would suggest inflammation or infection, not necessarily infection. The appearance of the membrane in a newborn is not identical to that of an adult (Choice D) as it may have a different color, thickness, or opacity due to developmental differences.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a bruit in a 3-year-old child, especially over the temporal area, is not a normal finding and could indicate a serious underlying issue such as an arteriovenous malformation or other vascular abnormality. Stopping the examination and notifying the physician is crucial for further evaluation and management. A: Continuing the examination is not appropriate as the bruit should prompt further investigation. B: Checking again in 1 hour is unnecessary delay in addressing a potentially serious issue. C: Notifying the parents alone without medical intervention may delay necessary evaluation and treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it provides an accurate explanation for the frequent ear infections in the 2-year-old. The eustachian tube in children is indeed shorter and wider compared to adults, making it easier for infections to develop. This anatomical difference predisposes young children to ear infections. Choice A is incorrect because it falsely implies that frequent ear infections in small children are unusual only if something else is wrong. Choice B is incorrect as checking the immune system is not typically the first step in addressing recurrent ear infections. Choice C is incorrect as cerumen (earwax) does not directly contribute to ear infections in the middle ear.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. When using an otoscope to assess the nasal cavity, it is crucial to avoid touching the nasal septum with the speculum to prevent discomfort or injury to the patient. Touching the nasal septum can cause pain and potential damage. Incorrect Choices: A: Inserting the speculum at least 3 cm into the vestibule is not necessary and may cause discomfort or injury to the patient. C: Displacing the nose to the side being examined is not required and may not provide any additional benefit during the assessment. D: Keeping the speculum tip medial to avoid touching the floor of the nares is not as critical as avoiding contact with the nasal septum, which is more sensitive and can be easily injured.