A school-age child in an emergency department has a 2-day history of nausea and vomiting and reports severe right lower quadrant pain. A nurse is preparing the child for an appendectomy. Which of the following statements by the child should the nurse find most concerning?
"My belly doesn't hurt anymore."
"I am hungry and thirsty."
"I'm tired and want to take a nap."
"I am scared and I want to go home."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "My belly doesn't hurt anymore."
- This statement is concerning because sudden relief from severe right lower quadrant pain in a child with a history of nausea, vomiting, and suspected appendicitis may indicate a rupture or perforation of the appendix. When the appendix ruptures, there may be a temporary alleviation of pain due to the release of pressure. However, this situation is critical and requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications such as peritonitis or sepsis.
B. "I am hungry and thirsty."
- While it's normal for a child to feel hungry and thirsty, especially if they have been experiencing nausea and vomiting, this statement is not necessarily concerning on its own. However, in the context of suspected appendicitis and severe right lower quadrant pain, it's important for the child to remain NPO (nothing by mouth) to prevent complications in case surgery is needed.
C. "I'm tired and want to take a nap."
- Feeling tired and wanting to rest is not uncommon, especially if the child has been experiencing discomfort or pain for a prolonged period. While this statement may indicate fatigue, it's not inherently concerning in the context of suspected appendicitis. However, it's important for the nurse to monitor the child's energy level and overall condition.
D. "I am scared and I want to go home."
- It's understandable for a child to feel scared or anxious, particularly when facing a medical procedure such as surgery. While this statement reflects the child's emotions, it doesn't necessarily indicate a change in their medical condition. However, it's important for the nurse to address the child's fears and provide emotional support while ensuring that the child receives appropriate medical care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Gross hematuria: Gross hematuria refers to visible blood in the urine, which can present as pink, red, or cola-colored urine. While hematuria can be associated with various kidney conditions, including Wilms' tumor, it is not a consistent or defining symptom of this specific tumor. Additionally, because the tumor is typically confined within the kidney and does not usually invade the urinary tract, gross hematuria might not always be present.
B. Dysuria: Dysuria is the medical term for painful or difficult urination. It is not a typical symptom of Wilms' tumor, as this tumor primarily affects the kidney and may not directly affect the urinary tract in a way that causes painful urination.
C. An abdominal mass: This is the correct answer. Wilms' tumor often presents as a palpable abdominal mass, which may be felt during physical examination. The mass is usually firm, non-tender, and confined to one side of the abdomen. Detection of an abdominal mass should prompt further diagnostic evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
D. Nausea and vomiting: While some children with Wilms' tumor may experience nausea and vomiting, these symptoms are nonspecific and can be caused by various conditions. They are not considered characteristic or defining features of Wilms' tumor. The presence of nausea and vomiting would prompt further assessment to determine the underlying cause
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Reports of exposure to a skin irritant:
This finding is consistent with contact dermatitis, as it typically occurs due to exposure to irritants or allergens. Therefore, it is an expected finding.
B. Elevated temperature:
Elevated temperature is not typically associated with contact dermatitis unless there is a secondary infection. It is not a typical finding in uncomplicated contact dermatitis.
C. Denial of pruritus:
Pruritus, or itching, is a common symptom of contact dermatitis. Clients with contact dermatitis often experience itching or discomfort in the affected area. Therefore, denial of pruritus would be an unexpected finding.
D. Reports of joint discomfort:
Joint discomfort is not typically associated with contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis primarily affects the skin and does not usually involve the joints. Therefore, reports of joint discomfort would be an unexpected finding.
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