A child with iron-deficiency anemia receives a daily oral iron supplement. The mother tells the nurse their child is having black stools. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
"You need to bring your child to the emergency department immediately and have the stool tested for blood."
"Greenish black stools are normal when oral iron supplements are being administered."
"You should stop administering the daily iron supplement."
"Don't worry about it."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: "You need to bring your child to the emergency department immediately and have the stool tested for blood." is not an appropriate response by the nurse. Black stools can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. However, in this case, the black stools are most likely caused by the iron supplement, which can change the color and consistency of the stool. Therefore, there is no need to panic or rush to the emergency department.
Choice B reason: "Greenish black stools are normal when oral iron supplements are being administered." is the most appropriate response by the nurse. It is a factual and reassuring statement that explains the reason for the stool color change and educates the mother about the expected side effect of the iron supplement. It also encourages the mother to continue the treatment for the child's anemia.
Choice C reason: "You should stop administering the daily iron supplement." is not an appropriate response by the nurse. It is a harmful and incorrect advice that contradicts the prescribed treatment for the child's anemia. Stopping the iron supplement can worsen the child's condition and lead to complications such as growth retardation, cognitive impairment, or heart failure.
Choice D reason: "Don't worry about it." is not an appropriate response by the nurse. It is a dismissive and vague statement that does not address the mother's concern or provide any information or education. It can also undermine the mother's trust and confidence in the nurse and the health care system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Eyes are deviated to the right is an assessment finding that indicates increased intracranial pressure and possible herniation of the brain. It is a sign of cranial nerve III palsy, which affects the movement of the eye and the size of the pupil. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
Choice B reason: Amnesia to the cause of the trauma is an assessment finding that indicates memory loss and possible concussion. It is a sign of damage to the temporal lobe, which is involved in memory formation and retrieval. It is not a medical emergency, but it requires further evaluation and monitoring.
Choice C reason: Complaint of mild headache is an assessment finding that indicates pain and discomfort. It is a common symptom of traumatic brain injury, but it is not specific or severe. It can be managed with analgesics and rest.
Choice D reason: Pupils constrict from 5 mm to 2 mm with direct light stimulus is an assessment finding that indicates normal pupillary response. It is a sign of intact cranial nerve II and III function, which control the vision and the pupil size. It is not a cause for concern or notification.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect. Administering a dose of a prescribed antiepileptic drug is an appropriate intervention, but it should be done during the seizure, not after. Positioning the person supine is also not recommended, as it can compromise the airway and increase the risk of aspiration.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Wrapping the patient in warm blankets and hyperextending their neck are both harmful actions, as they can increase the body temperature and obstruct the airway. The patient should be kept cool and comfortable, and their head should be tilted to the side or supported with a pillow.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Offering the patient a crossword to work on to promote mental stimulation is not an essential intervention, and it may not be feasible or appropriate for a patient who has just experienced a prolonged seizure. The patient may need rest and observation, not cognitive tasks.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Establishing that the patient has a patent airway after the seizure ends and assessing for breathing are the most important interventions, as they ensure the oxygenation and ventilation of the patient. The nurse should also monitor the vital signs, neurological status, and blood glucose levels of the patient.
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