The nurse is caring for a school-age child with varicella. What should the nurse observe about the rash that is associated with this infection?
Dark red, macular lesions, and very pruritic
Various stages of lesions present at the same time, appear in successive crops, and very pruritic
Yellowish, scaly patches present on the scalp
A pink maculopapular rash starts at the hairline and spreads down the body
The Correct Answer is D
A. Dark red, macular lesions, and very pruritic:
Varicella lesions are typically pink or red and start as macules (flat, red spots) that develop into papules (raised bumps) and then vesicles (fluid-filled blisters). Dark red macular lesions are not commonly associated with varicella.
B. Various stages of lesions present at the same time, appear in successive crops, and very pruritic:
The presence of various stages of lesions (papules, vesicles, crusts) simultaneously, occurring in successive crops, and being intensely itchy are typical features of varicella.
C. Yellowish, scaly patches present on the scalp:
Yellowish, scaly patches on the scalp are not typical of varicella. This description is more indicative of conditions like seborrheic dermatitis rather than the rash associated with chickenpox.
D. A pink maculopapular rash starts at the hairline and spreads down the body.
Varicella rash usually begins as pink or red spots that develop into small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters (vesicles). These vesicles can then progress to form crusts and scabs. The rash often starts on the face, scalp, or trunk and then spreads to other parts of the body, gradually covering the entire body.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Mother sets aside afternoon time for the toddler while the baby naps.
Setting aside dedicated time for the older sibling when the newborn is napping demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring the older child receives attention and feels valued, reducing the likelihood of resentment or rivalry.
B. Mother sleeps while newborn is sleeping:
While rest is important for the mother, this doesn't directly address the dynamics of sibling rivalry. It's essential to focus on positive interactions and attention for the toddler when the newborn is not requiring immediate care.
C. Mother asks if the toddler likes the new baby:
While communication is important, simply asking if the toddler likes the new baby may not be sufficient to prevent sibling rivalry. Actions and dedicated time are often more impactful.
D. Mother suggests family not bring gifts to the toddler until behavior changes:
Delaying gifts based on behavior may create an association between gifts and behavior change, which might not be the most effective approach. Positive reinforcement and attention are often more beneficial in preventing rivalry.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Sore throat:
A sore throat is a common symptom of various respiratory tract infections, including acute epiglottitis. However, examining the throat with a tongue depressor is unlikely to directly precipitate a sore throat in this context.
B. Complete obstruction:
Examining the child's throat with a tongue depressor in acute epiglottitis can potentially trigger spasm or swelling of the already inflamed epiglottis, leading to a rapid and complete obstruction of the airway. This is a critical concern and is why healthcare providers approach suspected cases of epiglottitis with great caution.
C. Inspiratory stridor:
Inspiratory stridor (high-pitched sound during inhalation) is a common symptom of upper airway obstruction, including in conditions like acute epiglottitis. It may be present without manipulation, but using a tongue depressor in the throat could exacerbate this symptom.
D. Respiratory tract infection:
Acute epiglottitis is indeed a type of respiratory tract infection. However, examining the throat with a tongue depressor is not likely to directly precipitate a respiratory tract infection.

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