A nurse is caring for a child who has otitis media. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse expect?
Tugging on the affected ear lobe
Erythema and edema of the affected ear
Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe
Clear drainage from the affected ear
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is: A. Tugging on the affected ear lobe.
Choice A reason:
Tugging on the affected ear lobe is a common sign of discomfort in children with otitis media. This behavior indicates that the child is experiencing pain or pressure in the ear, which is a typical symptom of this condition. Children often cannot verbalize their discomfort, so they may tug or pull at their ears to express their pain.
Choice B reason:
Erythema and edema of the affected ear are more indicative of otitis externa (swimmer's ear) rather than otitis media. Otitis media involves inflammation and infection of the middle ear, which is not typically visible externally. The primary signs of otitis media are observed through otoscopic examination, showing a bulging or erythematous tympanic membrane.
Choice C reason:
Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe is also more characteristic of otitis externa. In otitis media, the pain is usually deeper within the ear and not exacerbated by touching the outer ear. The pain in otitis media is due to the pressure and inflammation in the middle ear space.
Choice D reason:
Clear drainage from the affected ear is not typical of otitis media. If there is drainage, it is usually purulent (pus-like) and indicates a ruptured eardrum due to the infection. Clear drainage is more commonly associated with conditions like otitis externa or a perforated eardrum without infection.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: This response is appropriate, as it indicates urgency and concern for the infant's condition. Projectile vomiting immediately after eating can be a sign of pyloric stenosis, which is a condition that causes the narrowing of the pylorus, which is the opening between the stomach and the small intestine. Pyloric stenosis can prevent food from passing through and cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or weight loss. The infant needs to be evaluated by a provider as soon as possible and may need surgery to correct the problem.
Choice B: This response is not appropriate, as it does not address the underlying cause of the infant's condition. Oral rehydration solution can help replace fluids and electrolytes lost through vomiting, but it does not treat pyloric stenosis or prevent further vomiting. Oral rehydration solution may also be vomited out by the infant if given too soon or too much.
Choice C: This response is not appropriate, as it does not address the underlying cause of the infant's condition. Burping the baby more frequently during feedings can help release air bubbles and prevent gas or colic, but it does not treat pyloric stenosis or prevent further vomiting. Burping may also trigger vomiting by increasing pressure on the stomach.
Choice D: This response is not appropriate, as it does not address the underlying cause of the infant's condition. Switching to a different formula can help if the infant has an allergy or intolerance to certain ingredients in their current formula, but it does not treat pyloric stenosis or prevent further vomiting. Switching formulas may also cause diarrhea or constipation by changing the infant's bowel flora.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in children with influenza. Ibuprofen does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, which is a rare but serious condition that affects the brain and liver.
Choice B: Grapefruit juice is a citrus fruit that can provide vitamin C and hydration for children with influenza. Grapefruit juice does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, but it can interact with some medications and affect their absorption or metabolism.
Choice C: A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air and can help ease congestion and coughing in children with influenza. A humidifier does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, but it should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial growth and infection.
Choice D: Aspirin is a salicylate that can be used to reduce fever and inflammation in children with influenza. However, aspirin can increase the risk of Reye syndrome, especially in children who have viral infections. Reye syndrome can cause swelling in the brain, liver damage, and even death. Therefore, aspirin should be avoided in children under 19 years old who have influenza or other viral illnesses.
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