While checking the vital signs of a 10-year-old child who underwent a tonsillectomy earlier in the day, the nurse notices the child swallowing every 2 to 3 minutes. What action should the nurse take next?
Check for signs of teeth clenching or grinding
Inspect the back of the throat
Stimulate the gag reflex by touching the tonsillar pillars
Ask the child to speak to assess for any changes in voice tone .
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Checking for signs of teeth clenching or grinding is not typically necessary in a child who has undergone a tonsillectomy and is swallowing frequently. These signs are not typically associated with post-tonsillectomy complications.
Choice B rationale
Inspecting the back of the throat is an appropriate action for the nurse to take next. Frequent swallowing can be a sign of bleeding in the throat, which is a potential complication of tonsillectomy. By inspecting the back of the throat, the nurse can assess for signs of bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Stimulating the gag reflex by touching the tonsillar pillars is not typically necessary in a child who has undergone a tonsillectomy and is swallowing frequently. This action could potentially cause discomfort or induce vomiting.
Choice D rationale
Asking the child to speak to assess for any changes in voice tone is not typically necessary in a child who has undergone a tonsillectomy and is swallowing frequently. Changes in voice tone are not typically associated with post-tonsillectomy complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Creating an organization chart for tasks can help a child with ADHD manage their responsibilities and stay on track.
Choice D rationale
Designating an established area for study can provide structure and minimize distractions, helping a child with ADHD focus on their work.
Choice E rationale
Maintaining a consistent home schedule can provide predictability and structure, which can be beneficial for a child with ADHD5.
Choice B rationale
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial in the treatment of ADHD. They are often used when stimulant medications are not effective or cause undesirable side effects.
Choice C rationale
While medication can be an important part of treatment for some children with ADHD, it is not always the best or only approach. Behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes are also important components of treatment.
Choice F rationale
Being diagnosed with ADHD does not automatically qualify a child for a specialized education plan. While some children with ADHD may benefit from individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans, these are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer is... Choice D. Red blood cell count of 2.3 x 10²/L.
Choice A rationale:
In considering the 9-week-old infant scheduled for a cleft lip repair, it's crucial to evaluate various physiological parameters to ensure optimal surgical outcomes. The urine specific gravity of 1.011 falls within the normal range for infants, typically ranging from 1.001 to 1.020. This parameter primarily reflects the concentration of solutes in the urine and is influenced by hydration status. While deviations from the normal range may indicate certain renal conditions or hydration imbalances, a value of 1.011 alone does not signify a critical concern warranting immediate attention before surgery.
Choice B rationale:
A white blood cell count of 10,000/mm³ suggests a normal leukocyte count within the expected range for infants. The normal range for white blood cell count in infants is approximately 6,000 to 17,000/mm³. This parameter serves as an indicator of the body's immune response and can elevate in response to infection or inflammation. However, in the absence of clinical signs or symptoms suggestive of infection, such as fever or localized inflammation at the surgical site, a white blood cell count of 10,000/mm³ is not indicative of an urgent issue necessitating immediate communication with the surgeon.
Choice C rationale:
Weight gain of 2 pounds (0.91 kg) since birth is a positive indicator of growth and development in the infant. Infants typically exhibit rapid weight gain during the first few months of life, with an average weight gain of approximately 0.5 to 1 ounce per day or 1 to 2 pounds per month. This signifies adequate nutritional intake and physiological growth, which are essential for surgical readiness and postoperative recovery. However, while weight gain is an important parameter to monitor in pediatric patients, it does not directly impact the immediate preoperative considerations for a cleft lip repair.
Choice D rationale:
The red blood cell count of 2.3 x 10²/L is the most critical parameter requiring communication with the surgeon before transporting the infant to the surgical suite. A red blood cell count below the normal range can indicate anemia, which may pose risks during surgery, including impaired oxygen delivery to tissues and compromised hemostasis. Normal red blood cell counts in infants typically range from 3.9 to 5.2 x 10^12/L. Anemia in pediatric patients can result from various etiologies, including nutritional deficiencies, hemolytic disorders, or bone marrow suppression. Communicating a low red blood cell count ensures that the surgical team is aware of this potential risk factor and can take appropriate measures, such as transfusion or adjustments to the surgical plan, to mitigate perioperative complications.
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