A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a child who has a temperature of 39.1° C (102.4° F) and a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Prepare the child for a lumbar puncture.
Implement droplet precautions for the child.
Dim the lights in the child's room.
Administer an antipyretic to the child.
The Correct Answer is B
The nurse should first implement droplet precautions for the child.
Bacterial meningitis can be spread through respiratory and throat secretions, so it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice A is wrong because while a lumbar puncture may be necessary for diagnosis, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Choice C is wrong because while dimming the lights may provide comfort, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Choice D is wrong because while administering an antipyretic may provide comfort, preventing the spread of infection is a higher priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Deep-breathing and counting exercises can help the child relax and cope with anxiety before the procedure.
Choice A is wrong because a 30-minute teaching session may not be necessary or appropriate for a school-age child.
Choice C is wrong because it’s important to use clear and honest language when explaining the procedure to the child.
Choice D is wrong because it’s important to explain the procedure to the child in a calm and quiet environment, not in the playroom.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The accessory nerve is tested by evaluating the function of the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles.
The trapezius muscle is tested by asking the patient to shrug their shoulders with and without resistance.
Choice A is wrong because following a light in the six cardinal positions tests the function of cranial nerves III, IV, and VI.
Choice B is wrong because moving their tongue in all directions tests the function of cranial nerve XII.
Choice C is wrong because showing their teeth while smiling tests the function of cranial nerve VII.
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