Pediatric HESI 2024

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Mental retardation occurs if PKU is untreated.' Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder that results in the inability to metabolize phenylalanine properly. Without proper dietary management, high levels of phenylalanine can lead to severe mental retardation and other neurological problems. Therefore, educating parents about the importance of early and consistent treatment to prevent mental retardation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect because testing for PKU is typically done shortly after birth, not immediately. Choice C is incorrect because treatment for PKU primarily involves strict dietary management to control phenylalanine intake, not lifelong medications. Choice D is incorrect because PKU is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, not as an autosomal dominant gene.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While catheterization can be uncomfortable, it does not typically result in long-term psychological harm, and obtaining a sterile specimen is important for accurate diagnosis.

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: B

Rationale: Covering the sac with saline-soaked nonadhesive gauze is essential in the preoperative care of an infant with myelomeningocele. This practice helps prevent infection and maintains moisture around the sac before surgery, promoting optimal healing outcomes. Positioning the infant supine with a pillow under the buttocks may be uncomfortable and unnecessary. Wrapping the infant snugly in a blanket does not address the specific care needs of the myelomeningocele. Applying a diaper over the sac can increase the risk of infection and should be avoided in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct first action before administering tube feeding to an infant is to offer a pacifier. Providing a pacifier stimulates the sucking reflex, aiding in digestion and providing comfort to the infant. Irrigating the tube with water (Choice A) is not typically the initial step and could potentially introduce unnecessary fluid into the infant's system. Slowly instilling formula (Choice C) should only be done after ensuring the tube is appropriately placed. Placing the infant in the Trendelenburg position (Choice D) is not necessary for tube feeding and could pose risks such as aspiration.