A nurse working in a pediatric inpatient unit is teaching the parents of a 10-year-old child who has suspected appendicitis about non-pharmacological pain control measures. Which statement by the parents indicates an understanding of the teaching?
"Having our child pull their legs closer to their chest might provide relief."
"Applying a warm compress to our child's abdomen can help ease the pain."
"Gently massaging our child's abdomen in a circular motion can help."
"We should encourage our child to lie flat on their back to rest."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Having our child pull their legs closer to their chest might provide relief.": Flexing the hips and knees reduces stretching of the inflamed peritoneum and decreases tension on the abdominal muscles. This position can lessen pain associated with appendiceal inflammation. It is a commonly recommended non-pharmacological comfort measure in suspected appendicitis.
B. "Applying a warm compress to our child's abdomen can help ease the pain.": Heat increases blood flow and may promote inflammation, which can worsen appendiceal swelling and increase the risk of rupture. Thermal applications to the abdomen are avoided when appendicitis is suspected. This intervention is contraindicated.
C. "Gently massaging our child's abdomen in a circular motion can help.": Abdominal massage increases pressure on inflamed tissues and can exacerbate pain or precipitate perforation. Manipulation of the abdomen is avoided in suspected appendicitis. Comfort measures should minimize, not increase, abdominal stimulation.
D. "We should encourage our child to lie flat on their back to rest.": Lying flat extends the abdomen and increases peritoneal stretch, which may intensify pain. Children with appendicitis often instinctively assume a flexed or side-lying position to reduce discomfort. Flat positioning does not promote pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Reassure the child that their parents' divorce is not their fault: Children often internalize blame during parental separation. Addressing this misconception first is the priority because it directly impacts the child’s emotional well-being and sense of security, which forms the foundation for other supportive interventions.
B. Encourage the child to express their feelings and concerns: Encouraging expression of feelings is important, but reassurance that the child is not at fault should come first to reduce guilt and anxiety before further emotional processing.
C. Provide education on age-appropriate coping strategies for children who are experiencing divorce: Teaching coping strategies is beneficial but secondary to establishing the child’s sense of safety and understanding of the situation.
D. Collaborate with both parents to ensure a consistent routine for the child: Maintaining routines supports stability, yet it does not immediately address the child’s potential self-blame, which is the most urgent concern for emotional support.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Prepare the child for venipuncture to obtain a blood sample for lead level testing: Confirming suspected lead poisoning requires measurement of a venous blood lead level. This diagnostic step is the priority because it establishes exposure severity and guides further management, including environmental interventions and possible chelation therapy.
B. Discuss the need for developmental assessments to evaluate the impact of lead exposure: Developmental evaluation is important because lead exposure can cause cognitive and behavioral effects, but it is addressed after confirming the diagnosis and determining the extent of exposure.
C. Document a detailed history of the child's growth and development, as well as manifestations of lead exposure: A thorough history supports overall assessment, but it does not take priority over obtaining objective laboratory confirmation needed to direct immediate care decisions.
D. Instruct the parents to remove peeling paint and clean dust in the home to reduce the risk of lead exposure: Environmental control measures are essential, but education and remediation should follow confirmation of lead exposure and collaboration with public health resources.
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.