The mother of an 8-year-old boy tells the practical nurse (PN) that he fell out of a tree and hurt his arm and shoulder. Which assessment finding should the PN note as the most significant indicator of possible child abuse?
The mother refuses to answer questions about family history.
The child has several abrasions on the chest and legs.
The child looks at the floor when answering the nurse's questions.
The mother's version of the injury is different from the child's version.
The Correct Answer is D
In cases of suspected child abuse, inconsistencies or discrepancies between the child's account of the injury and the caregiver's version are concerning. It raises questions about the credibility of the explanation provided by the caregiver and suggests a possible attempt to conceal the true cause of the injury. Such discrepancies may indicate that the injury was intentionally inflicted or that the child is being coerced or influenced to provide a false account.
While the other assessment findings may raise some level of concern, they are not as significant as the discrepancy between the child's and mother's versions of the injury:
A. "The mother refuses to answer questions about family history." While this behavior may raise some suspicion or cause for further investigation, it alone does not conclusively indicate child abuse. It may be related to other factors such as privacy concerns or cultural differences.
B. "The child has several abrasions on the chest and legs." While the presence of abrasions can be concerning, they alone do not provide sufficient evidence of child abuse. Children are prone to injuries and can obtain abrasions during normal play and activities.
C. "The child looks at the floor when answering the nurse's questions." This behavior may suggest shyness, anxiety, or discomfort, but it is not a definitive indicator of child abuse. Some children may exhibit such behaviors due to their personality or other factors unrelated to abuse. It is important to consider the child's overall behavior and communication patterns in conjunction with other assessment findings.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E","H"]
Explanation
To identify the potential source of the client's new-onset confusion and decreased appetite, the nurse can use the following assessment techniques:
- Ask to see the client's list of home medications: This can help identify any medications that may contribute to confusion or appetite changes.
- Determine if the client has recently lost a loved one: Emotional distress, such as grief from a recent loss, can contribute to changes in mental status and appetite.
- Measure the client's vital signs: Vital signs can provide important information about the client's overall health status and help identify any abnormalities that may be contributing to the symptoms.
- Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram: This can help assess the client's cardiac function and detect any cardiac-related causes for the symptoms.
- Ask about the client's last bowel movement: Changes in bowel habits can sometimes be indicative of underlying issues affecting appetite and overall health.
- Measure the client's abdominal circumference: This can help assess for any abdominal distension or changes that may be related to the client's symptoms.
Collecting a sputum and urine culture and sensitivities and having the client ambulate across the room are not directly related to identifying the potential source of confusion and decreased appetite in this case.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The appropriate action for the practical nurse (PN) in this situation would be to ask the client if he is currently hearing voices. This step is important to assess the client's current state and gather information about his experiences. By directly asking the client about hearing voices, the PN can gain insight into the client's symptoms and determine if there is a need for further intervention or support.
B. Having the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) escort the client to his room may not be necessary at this point, as the client may simply be engaging in self-talk or may prefer some time alone. However, if the client's behavior becomes disruptive, agitated, or poses a safety risk, involving the UAP or taking other appropriate measures may be warranted.
C. Recording the event is important for documentation purposes, but it should not be the only action taken. It is crucial to actively assess the client's well-being and address any potential concerns or needs.
D. Administering an as-needed (PRN) dose of haloperidol without further assessment or consulting the healthcare provider would be inappropriate. Medication decisions should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the client's symptoms and the healthcare provider's recommendations.
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