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 B
Explanation
A. "Take a hot shower daily to relieve itching."
This instruction is not recommended because hot water can exacerbate itching and worsen the condition. Hot showers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to further dryness and irritation, which may aggravate the itching associated with scabies.
B. "Wear loose fitting clothing while you are experiencing itching."
This instruction is appropriate because loose-fitting clothing can help minimize friction and irritation on the skin affected by scabies. Tight clothing can exacerbate itching and discomfort, so wearing loose clothing can provide relief and allow the skin to breathe.
C. "Add fabric softener to linens when they are washed."
This instruction is not recommended because fabric softeners may contain chemicals or fragrances that can irritate the skin, especially for someone with pruritus or scabies. It's best to use gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergent to wash linens and clothing to minimize potential irritation.
D. "Use a soft bristle brush to gently rub the affected areas."
This instruction is not recommended because using a brush, even if it has soft bristles, can further irritate the skin and potentially spread the scabies mites to other areas of the body. It's best to avoid any abrasive or vigorous rubbing of the affected areas and instead focus on gentle cleansing and moisturizing techniques.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Shingles: This is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. It typically manifests as a painful rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters.
B. Athlete's foot: This is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It causes itching, burning, and cracked, flaking skin.
C. Fever blister: Also known as a cold sore, this is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. It typically appears as a cluster of small, fluid-filled blisters on or around the lips.
D. Pinworms: This is a parasitic infection caused by tiny, white worms that infect the intestines. It commonly causes anal itching, particularly at night, due to the female worms laying eggs around the anal area.
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