When caring for a child with probable appendicitis, the nurse would be alert to recognize which condition or symptom is a sign of perforation?
Decreased abdominal distention
Anorexia
Bradycardia
Sudden relief from pain
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Decreased abdominal distention is not typically a sign of appendicitis perforation. In fact, perforation often leads to increased abdominal distention due to the release of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, causing inflammation and swelling. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason:
Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is a common symptom of appendicitis but not specifically indicative of perforation2. While anorexia can be present in cases of perforation, it is not a definitive sign. The sudden relief of pain is a more critical indicator of perforation, as it suggests the appendix has ruptured, temporarily relieving pressure.
Choice C reason:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a typical sign of appendicitis perforation. In fact, appendicitis and its complications, such as perforation, are more likely to cause tachycardia (an increased heart rate) due to pain and infection. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D reason:
Sudden relief from pain is a classic sign of appendicitis perforation. When the appendix ruptures, the pressure inside the appendix is relieved, leading to a temporary decrease in pain. However, this is followed by a rapid onset of severe pain as the contents of the appendix spread throughout the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis. This sudden change in pain is a critical indicator that the appendix has perforated and requires immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is b. Preadolescent growth spurt
Choice A reason:
Idiopathic scoliosis is not typically noticeable when a toddler begins to walk. At this stage, the spine is still developing, and any curvature is usually not significant enough to be detected. Idiopathic scoliosis most commonly becomes noticeable during periods of rapid growth, which occur later in childhood.
Choice B Reason:
The preadolescent growth spurt is the period when idiopathic scoliosis becomes most noticeable. This is because the rapid growth during this time can exacerbate the curvature of the spine. Idiopathic scoliosis often becomes apparent between the ages of 10 and 18 years, when children experience significant growth spurts.
Choice C Reason:
Late adolescence is not the period when idiopathic scoliosis becomes most noticeable. By this time, most children have completed their major growth spurts, and any scoliosis would likely have been detected earlier. The condition is typically identified during the preadolescent growth spurt.
Choice D Reason:
The newborn period is not associated with the development of idiopathic scoliosis. While congenital scoliosis can be present at birth, idiopathic scoliosis develops later in childhood, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the first-line treatment for children with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration. ORS contains a precise balance of electrolytes and glucose, which helps to rehydrate the child effectively by promoting the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend ORS as the preferred treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. It is effective, easy to administer, and can be given at home or in a healthcare setting.
Choice B reason:
Antidiarrheal medications such as paregoric are not recommended for children with acute diarrhea. These medications can slow down the movement of the intestines, which may prolong the infection and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, they do not address the underlying cause of dehydration. The primary goal in managing acute diarrhea is to rehydrate the child, which is best achieved with ORS.
Choice C reason:
Clear liquids, such as water, broth, or diluted fruit juices, can be used to provide some hydration, but they do not contain the necessary electrolytes to effectively treat moderate dehydration. Clear liquids alone are not sufficient to replace the lost electrolytes and fluids caused by diarrhea. ORS is specifically formulated to address these needs and is more effective in rehydrating the child.
Choice D reason:
Adsorbents, such as kaolin and pectin, are not recommended for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children. These substances can bind to the contents of the intestines and may reduce the frequency of stools, but they do not address the underlying dehydration. The primary focus should be on rehydration with ORS, which provides the necessary electrolytes and fluids to restore the child’s hydration status.
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