The clinic nurse reviews the record of an infant and notes that the primary health care provider (PHCP) has documented a diagnosis of suspected Hirschsprung's disease. The nurse reviews the assessment findings documented in the record, knowing that which sign most likely led the parent to seek health care for the infant?
Diarrhea
Regurgitation of feedings
Projectile vomiting
Foul-smelling ribbon-like stools
The Correct Answer is D
A. Diarrhea
Explanation: Diarrhea is not a typical sign of Hirschsprung's disease. Instead, the condition is associated with constipation due to the obstructed passage of stool.
B. Regurgitation of feedings
Explanation: Regurgitation of feedings is not a characteristic sign of Hirschsprung's disease. It may be seen in other gastrointestinal conditions, but not specifically in this disorder.
C. Projectile vomiting
Explanation: Projectile vomiting is not a typical sign of Hirschsprung's disease. It may be associated with conditions such as pyloric stenosis, but it is not a characteristic feature of Hirschsprung's disease.
D. Foul-smelling ribbon-like stools
Explanation:
Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the rectum and a portion of the colon. The lack of ganglion cells results in functional obstruction, causing stool to accumulate in the affected area. One of the hallmark signs is the presence of foul-smelling, ribbon-like stools, often described as "fecal pellets" or "pellets" due to the obstructed passage of stool.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","F"]
Explanation
A. Elevate the extremity on pillows for the first 24 to 48 hours after casting to prevent swelling.
Explanation: Elevating the extremity can help reduce swelling, especially in the initial period after casting.
B. Place a heating pad on the lower end of the cast and over the fingers if the fingers feel cold.
Explanation: Applying heat can increase the risk of burns and is not recommended. If the fingers feel cold, it may indicate a circulation issue, and the healthcare provider should be contacted.
C. Keep small toys and sharp objects away from the cast.
Explanation: Keeping small toys and sharp objects away from the cast is important to prevent injury or damage to the cast.
D. Use a padded ruler or another padded object to scratch the skin under the cast if it itches.
Explanation: Inserting objects under the cast can lead to complications, including skin damage or infection. It is advisable not to insert anything into the cast.
E. Use the fingertips to lift the cast while it is drying.
Explanation: Lifting or manipulating the cast during the drying process can compromise its integrity and should be avoided. The cast needs to dry completely to provide proper support and immobilization.
F. Contact the primary health care provider (PHCP) if the child complains of numbness or tingling in the extremity.
Explanation: Numbness or tingling can indicate a circulation problem, and it is important to contact the healthcare provider for further assessment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A highly pruritic profuse macule to papule rash on the trunk
Explanation: This description does not fit the typical characteristics of erythema infectiosum. Fifth disease is not typically associated with a highly pruritic rash.
B. A discrete pinkish red maculopapular rash that is spreading to the trunk
Explanation: While erythema infectiosum does involve a rash that can spread to the trunk, the distinctive "slapped face" appearance is a key characteristic that is not captured in this option.
C. An erythema on the face that has a "slapped face" appearance.
Explanation:
Erythema infectiosum, commonly known as fifth disease or slapped cheek syndrome, is characterized by a distinctive facial rash that gives the appearance of a "slapped face." The rash typically starts on the face and then spreads to the trunk and extremities. It often begins with erythema on the cheeks, giving the child a flushed or slapped appearance, followed by a discrete rose-pink maculopapular rash on the trunk.
D. A discrete rose-pink maculopapular rash on the trunk
Explanation: This description fits the typical characteristics of the rash seen in erythema infectiosum, but the key identifier is the "slapped face" appearance on the face.

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