A 4-month-old has been admitted to the pediatric medical unit with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The infant demonstrates poor feeding and begins coughing frequently. Which additional finding should alert the nurse that the child is experiencing respiratory distress?
Flaring of the nares.
Diaphragmatic respirations.
Resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute.
Bilateral bronchial breath sounds.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Flaring of the nares: Flaring of the nares occurs when the infant is working harder to breathe and indicates increased respiratory effort. In the context of RSV with poor feeding and frequent coughing, this is a key sign of respiratory distress that requires prompt attention.
B. Diaphragmatic respirations: Diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing is normal in infants and reflects typical respiratory mechanics. It does not indicate respiratory distress unless accompanied by other abnormal signs like retractions or nasal flaring.
C. Resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute: A respiratory rate of 35 is within the normal range for a 4-month-old (30–60 breaths/minute). Alone, it does not signify distress, though trends or additional signs should be monitored.
D. Bilateral bronchial breath sounds: Bilateral bronchial breath sounds can be normal over the central airways. This finding does not indicate respiratory distress and may reflect normal auscultatory findings in infants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["35"]
Explanation
Calculation:
- Calculate the difference in weight between the wet and dry diaper.
Weight difference (grams) = Wet diaper weight (grams) - Dry diaper weight (grams)
= 85 grams - 50 grams
= 35 grams.
- Convert the weight difference in grams to milliliters (mL).
Conversion factor: 1 gram = 1 mL
Urine output (mL) = Weight difference (grams) x 1 mL/gram
= 35 grams x 1 mL/gram
= 35 mL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Return of the uterus to prepregnancy size: While oxytocin helps the uterus contract, uterine involution occurs gradually over several weeks and is not an immediate outcome of oxytocin administration.
B. Expulsion of the placenta: Oxytocin is sometimes used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage after placental delivery, but the actual expulsion of the placenta occurs before oxytocin is routinely administered.
C. Activation of the let-down reflex: The let-down reflex, which triggers milk ejection, is stimulated by oxytocin during breastfeeding. However, in the postpartum IV setting, the primary purpose of oxytocin is uterine contraction, not lactation.
D. Stimulation of uterine contractions: Oxytocin directly stimulates smooth muscle of the uterus, promoting strong contractions. This helps control postpartum bleeding and supports the uterus in returning to a contracted state, which is the expected outcome after delivery.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
