A nurse is preparing to measure an infant's vital signs. Which sites should the nurse use to assess a heart rate?
Apex of the heart
Radial artery
Carotid artery
Brachial artery
The Correct Answer is A
A. Apex of the heart: The apical pulse is the most accurate site for measuring heart rate in infants, especially those under 2 years old. It allows the nurse to auscultate directly over the heart with a stethoscope for a full minute, capturing the true rate and rhythm, including any irregularities.
B. Radial artery: The radial pulse is not a reliable site in infants due to their small and less-developed peripheral arteries. It can be difficult to palpate and may give an inaccurate heart rate, especially if the infant is active or crying.
C. Carotid artery: The carotid artery is typically avoided in infants for routine assessment due to the risk of applying too much pressure, which can impair cerebral blood flow. It's primarily used in emergencies to check for circulation.
D. Brachial artery: The brachial artery is used for palpation during CPR or in the absence of a stethoscope, but it is not as accurate as the apical site for assessing heart rate. It's better for checking circulation than heart rhythm or rate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide the infant with appropriate clothing and blankets to maintain warmth: Infants have an immature thermoregulatory system, making it harder for them to maintain body temperature. Using appropriate clothing and blankets helps reduce heat loss through radiation, convection, and evaporation, supporting stable core body temperature.
B. Offer the infant a cool beverage to drink frequently: Cool beverages are not appropriate for thermoregulation in infants, especially those not yet on solid food. They primarily rely on breast milk or formula, and fluid intake alone is not effective for managing temperature in infants.
C. Keep the infant in a well-ventilated room with a fan: While ventilation may help regulate temperature in hot environments, the use of fans can increase the risk of hypothermia in infants due to rapid heat loss. Infants should be kept in environments with stable, moderate temperatures.
D. Place the infant in direct sunlight for extended periods of time: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to overheating and increases the risk of sunburn or heatstroke in infants. Controlled indoor lighting and indirect sunlight are safer alternatives for light exposure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt: This stage occurs between ages 1 and 3, when toddlers develop a sense of independence in basic self-care tasks. A 9-year-old has already passed this stage, making it inappropriate for care planning.
B. Identity vs. role confusion: Typical of adolescence (ages 12 to 18), this stage involves forming a personal identity and sense of self. Since the child is 9 years old, they have not yet entered this stage of psychosocial development.
C. Industry vs. inferiority: This stage occurs between ages 6 and 12, when children strive to gain competence and confidence through learning and task completion. Planning home care should include strategies that build the child's self-efficacy and encourage responsibility.
D. Initiative vs. guilt: This stage applies to preschoolers (ages 3 to 6) who learn to initiate activities and develop a sense of purpose. A 9-year-old is already beyond this stage and requires more complex developmental support.
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