A nurse working at a clinic speaks on the telephone with a parent of a 2-month-old infant. The parent tells the nurse that the infant has projectile vomiting followed by hunger after meals.
Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
“Bring your infant into the clinic today to be seen.”.
“Burp your child more frequently during feedings.”.
“Give your infant an oral rehydrating solution.”.
“You might want to try switching to a different formula.”.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The symptoms described by the parent - projectile vomiting followed by hunger - could indicate a serious condition such as pyloric stenosis, which is a narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the small intestine. This condition can lead to severe dehydration and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
While burping can help to relieve gas and minor stomach discomfort, it would not address the underlying issue causing the projectile vomiting. This advice might be appropriate for a baby with simple colic or gas, but not for the symptoms described.
Choice C rationale
While oral rehydrating solutions can help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, they do not address the underlying cause of the projectile vomiting. Furthermore, if the baby is vomiting frequently, they may not be able to keep down the solution.
Choice D rationale
Switching formulas can sometimes help babies who have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their current formula. However, the symptoms described are not typical of a formula intolerance or allergy. Moreover, switching formulas without seeking medical advice can potentially lead to other complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation are not typical signs of pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis usually presents with non-bilious projectile vomiting, a palpable olive-shaped mass in the upper abdomen, and signs of dehydration.
Choice B rationale:
A rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds are characteristic signs of pyloric stenosis. The hypertrophied pyloric muscle obstructs the passage of food from the stomach to the duodenum, leading to gastric distention, visible peristalsis, and vomiting. The infant may appear hungry after vomiting and will continue to feed, leading to weight loss.
Choice C rationale:
Visible peristalsis and weight loss are consistent with pyloric stenosis. The visible peristalsis occurs as the infant tries to force the stomach contents through the narrowed pyloric sphincter. Weight loss is a result of poor feeding and vomiting.
Choice D rationale:
Distention of the lower abdomen and constipation are not typical findings in pyloric stenosis. Constipation suggests a lower gastrointestinal issue, while pyloric stenosis primarily affects the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While placing a pillow under the child’s head might seem like a good idea, it’s actually not recommended during a seizure. The child’s movements could be unpredictable, and a pillow could potentially cause suffocation.
Choice B rationale
Removing the child’s eyeglasses is a good idea, but it’s not the first thing you should do. The child’s safety is the top priority, and eyeglasses can be removed once the child is safe.
Choice C rationale
Timing the seizure is important for medical professionals to know, but it’s not the first action to take. The child’s immediate safety is the priority.
Choice D rationale
Moving the child into a side-lying position is the priority. This position helps keep the airway clear and allows any vomit to exit the mouth, reducing the risk of choking.
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