A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a preschooler who is postoperative following an appendectomy.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
The child is at risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Rationale for correct choices
• Pneumonia: The child has shallow respirations, diminished breath sounds at the bases, and repeated refusal to use the incentive spirometer, all of which decrease lung expansion. Postoperative abdominal pain further limits deep breathing, increasing atelectasis risk that can progress to pneumonia.
• Shallow breathing: Shallow respirations reduce alveolar ventilation and impair airway clearance, predisposing the child to atelectasis and subsequent pneumonia. Pain from the abdominal incision discourages deep breathing, worsening shallow breathing over time. The diminished breath sounds at the lung bases confirm reduced expansion.
Rationale for incorrect choices
• Wound infection: The abdominal dressing remains dry and intact throughout the shift, with no redness, swelling, or drainage. The child’s temperature is only mildly elevated and does not reflect a pattern typical of surgical site infection. Pain is generalized postoperative discomfort rather than localized wound changes. No wound findings suggest progression toward infection.
• Peritonitis: Although abdominal tenderness is present, this is expected after appendectomy and shows no signs of guarding, rigidity, or rebound tenderness. The child remains alert and interactive, which is inconsistent with systemic peritoneal infection. Vital signs remain stable aside from mild tachycardia that can accompany pain. These findings argue against peritonitis.
• Temperature: The temperature remains below the threshold for concern and is only slightly elevated, which is common postoperatively and not specific to pneumonia. Temperature changes alone do not provide clear evidence for the identified risk. More reliable indicators include respiratory patterns and breath sound changes.
• Bowel sounds: Absent bowel sounds are expected for several hours postoperatively and do not relate to respiratory complications such as pneumonia. This finding reflects postoperative ileus rather than pulmonary risk.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Discuss the client's strengths and weaknesses with the client: Exploring strengths can be part of long‑term therapeutic support, but it does not address the immediate concern of a possible suicidal statement. Before engaging in broader discussions, the nurse must first determine the meaning and seriousness of the client’s words.
B. Ask the client to clarify what they mean: Asking the client to clarify their statement is the priority because it directly assesses the risk of self‑harm. This step helps the nurse determine whether the client has suicidal ideation, intent, or a plan. Clear assessment of safety concerns must occur before any other supportive or therapeutic interventions.
C. Ask the client if they have been taking their medication as prescribed: Medication adherence is important, but it does not address the urgency of a suicidal comment. Focusing on medications can divert attention from immediate safety needs and delay critical assessment of suicidal risk.
D. Remind the client that it is not the end of life: Offering reassurance without assessing the client’s emotional state can minimize their feelings and discourage further communication. This response may shut down dialogue and does not evaluate the level of risk, which is the most urgent priority.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Slurred speech: Slurred speech is typically associated with intoxication from central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or opioids, rather than withdrawal. During withdrawal, the client is more likely to exhibit hyperactive or restless behavior.
B. Constricted pupils: Pupillary constriction (miosis) occurs with opioid intoxication. In contrast, opioid withdrawal usually causes dilated pupils (mydriasis) due to sympathetic nervous system overactivity.
C. Sedation: Sedation is a common effect of opioid use, not withdrawal. During withdrawal, clients are generally hyperalert, restless, and may experience insomnia rather than excessive sleepiness.
D. Yawning: Yawning is a classic sign of opioid withdrawal and reflects autonomic nervous system activation. It is often accompanied by lacrimation, rhinorrhea, sweating, and other early withdrawal symptoms.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.