A nurse is caring for a 6-week-old infant admitted to the pediatric unit for evaluation of a suspected pyloric stenosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Projectile vomiting
Metabolic acidosis
Effortless regurgitation
Distended abdomen
The Correct Answer is A
A. Projectile vomiting
Projectile vomiting is a classic symptom of pyloric stenosis in infants. It typically occurs within 30 minutes of feeding and is forceful, often projecting several feet away from the infant. This occurs due to the obstruction at the pyloric sphincter, leading to the stomach forcefully emptying its contents.
B. Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic acidosis is not a typical finding associated with pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis leads to vomiting, which can result in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, but it typically does not cause metabolic acidosis directly.
C. Effortless regurgitation
Effortless regurgitation is not a characteristic finding of pyloric stenosis. In pyloric stenosis, vomiting is forceful and projectile, rather than a passive regurgitation of stomach contents.
D. Distended abdomen
A distended abdomen can be a finding in pyloric stenosis. The obstruction at the pyloric sphincter can lead to gastric retention, causing the stomach to become distended over time. However, it's important to note that not all infants with pyloric stenosis will present with a visibly distended abdomen.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I give him medication so he'll be comfortable."
- This statement indicates that the parents are providing medication to ensure the child's comfort after the procedure, which is an appropriate action. It suggests that the parents are attentive to the child's needs postoperatively.
B. "I check his voiding to be sure there's no problem."
- Checking the child's voiding is important postoperatively to ensure there are no urinary retention issues or other complications related to urination. This statement reflects appropriate postoperative care and monitoring.
C. "I check his temperature."
- Monitoring the child's temperature is also a good practice postoperatively to watch for signs of infection or other complications. This statement indicates that the parents are attentive to signs of potential postoperative issues.
D. “I’ll let him decide when to return to his play activities."
- This statement suggests that the parents plan to let the child decide when to resume play activities after the surgery. However, after a surgical procedure like orchiopexy, it's important for parents to follow specific guidelines provided by healthcare providers regarding activity restrictions and return to normal activities. Allowing the child to decide may not align with the recommended postoperative care plan.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "You will need to take the entire prescription of antibiotics even if your symptoms improve."
Atopic dermatitis is not typically treated with antibiotics, as it is not caused by a bacterial infection. Therefore, this statement is not relevant and would not be included in the teaching.
B. "The doctor will remove the lesions with liquid nitrogen."
Liquid nitrogen is not typically used to remove lesions associated with atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis lesions are usually managed with topical treatments and other measures to reduce inflammation and itching. Therefore, this statement is not accurate and would not be included in the teaching.
C. "The doctor might recommend an antihistamine to help control your symptoms."
Antihistamines may be prescribed to help relieve itching associated with atopic dermatitis. Itching is a common symptom of atopic dermatitis, and antihistamines can help reduce this symptom. Therefore, this statement is relevant and would be included in the teaching.
D. "You can relieve your child's discomfort by applying warm compresses to the lesions."
Warm compresses can exacerbate itching associated with atopic dermatitis by increasing blood flow.
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