When suctioning a child with a tracheostomy, what should the nurse do to maintain a patent airway and prevent complications?

Choice A rationale

Performing the most invasive assessment first can cause distress and fear in a preschooler. It’s generally recommended to start with less invasive procedures to build trust and cooperation.

Choice B rationale

Separating a child from their caregiver during an examination can cause anxiety and fear. It’s often beneficial to have the caregiver present during the examination to provide comfort and reassurance.

Choice C rationale

Allowing a child to role-play using miniature equipment can help alleviate fears and anxieties about the examination. It gives the child a sense of control and understanding of what to expect.

Choice D rationale

While it’s important to explain procedures to a child, using medical terminology can confuse and scare them. It’s better to use simple, age-appropriate language that the child can understand.

Choice A rationale

The statement “My baby will be placed under special lights if the test is elevated” indicates a need for further teaching. This statement is incorrect because phototherapy (special lights) is not used to treat phenylketonuria (PKU). PKU is a genetic disorder that results in the body’s inability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. If left untreated, it can lead to intellectual disability and other serious health problems. The treatment for PKU involves a special diet that is low in phenylalanine. Therefore, the parent’s statement about using special lights for treatment indicates a misunderstanding about the nature of PKU and its treatment.

Choice B rationale

The statement “Sometimes the test is repeated in the doctor’s office at the 2-week check-up” is correct. PKU is usually diagnosed through a routine newborn screening test, and if the initial test results are positive or unclear, the test may be repeated.

Choice C rationale

The statement “My baby must take formula or breast milk before the test is done” is correct. For accurate results, the PKU test is done after the baby is 24 hours old and after the baby has had some protein in the diet.

Choice D rationale

The statement “This test checks for a genetic disorder that can be corrected by diet” is correct. PKU is a genetic disorder that can be managed with a special diet low in phenylalanine.