A school nurse is assessing a school-age child and notices silver specks that resemble dandruff but don’t brush off the hair. The child continuously scratches at the nape of their neck. The nurse should suspect which of the following disorders?
Impetigo contagiosa
Folliculitis
Tinea capitis
Pediculosis capitis
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Impetigo contagiosa is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that primarily affects children. It typically presents as reddish sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth, which quickly rupture, ooze for a few days, and then form a honey-colored crust. While impetigo can cause itching, it does not produce silver specks that resemble dandruff or cause persistent scratching at the nape of the neck.
Choice B Reason:
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles, often caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. It presents as small red bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles. Folliculitis can cause itching and discomfort, but it does not typically produce silver specks that resemble dandruff. The symptoms are more likely to include clusters of small red bumps or pus-filled blisters rather than dandruff-like specks.
Choice C Reason:
Tinea capitis, also known as scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection of the scalp. It can cause patches of hair loss, dry scaly rashes, severe itchiness, and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. While tinea capitis can cause flaking that resembles dandruff, it does not typically present with silver specks that do not brush off. The primary symptoms are more likely to include red, inflamed patches and hair loss.
Choice D Reason:
Pediculosis capitis, or head lice infestation, is characterized by the presence of lice and their eggs (nits) on the scalp and hair. The nits are often mistaken for dandruff but do not brush off easily. The primary symptoms include intense itching, especially at the nape of the neck and behind the ears, and the presence of small, white or silver specks (nits) attached to the hair shafts. This matches the description provided in the question, making pediculosis capitis the most likely diagnosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Blood pressure. While blood pressure can be an indicator of fluid loss, it is not the most reliable indicator in infants. Blood pressure can remain normal until significant fluid loss has occurred. Therefore, it is not the best measure for early detection of dehydration in infants.
Choice B Reason:
Respiratory rate. An increased respiratory rate can be a sign of dehydration, but it is not the most reliable indicator. Respiratory rate can be influenced by many factors, including fever and respiratory infections, making it less specific for assessing fluid loss.
Choice C Reason:
Body weight. This is the most reliable indicator of fluid loss in infants. A significant decrease in body weight is a direct measure of fluid loss. Monitoring changes in body weight can help healthcare providers accurately assess the degree of dehydration and guide appropriate treatment.
Choice D Reason:
Skin turgor. Skin turgor can be an indicator of dehydration, but it is not the most reliable measure. In infants, skin turgor can be affected by factors such as malnutrition and skin elasticity, making it less specific for assessing fluid loss compared to body weight.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement “We will restrict the amount of salt in our child’s food” is incorrect. Children with cystic fibrosis often lose more salt through their sweat than other children, especially in hot weather or during exercise. Therefore, they may need extra salt in their diet to compensate for this loss. Restricting salt intake can lead to hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can be dangerous.
Choice B Reason:
The statement “We will give our child pancreatic enzymes with snacks and meals” is correct. Most children with cystic fibrosis have pancreatic insufficiency, meaning their pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest food properly. Taking pancreatic enzyme supplements with all meals and snacks helps ensure that the child can absorb nutrients effectively, which is crucial for growth and overall health.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “We will limit our child’s fluid intake” is incorrect. Adequate hydration is essential for children with cystic fibrosis to help thin the mucus in their lungs and aid in its clearance. Limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate respiratory symptoms and other complications associated with cystic fibrosis
Choice D Reason:
The statement “We will prepare low-fat meals with limited protein for our child” is incorrect. Children with cystic fibrosis require a high-calorie diet that includes adequate amounts of fat and protein to meet their increased energy needs. A diet low in fat and protein can lead to malnutrition and poor growth. Instead, a high-fat, high-protein diet is recommended to support their nutritional requirements.
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