Sample Questions IV

Maternal and Child Health Practice Test Part 1

1. When assessing the adequacy of sperm for conception to occur, which of the following is the most useful criterion?
1. Sperm count
2. Sperm motility
3. Sperm maturity
4. Semen volume
2. A couple who wants to conceive but has been unsuccessful during the last 2 years has undergone many diagnostic procedures. When discussing the situation with the nurse, one partner states, “We know several friends in our age group and all of them have their own child already, Why can’t we have one?”. Which of the following would be the most pertinent nursing diagnosis for this couple?
1. Fear related to the unknown
2. Pain related to numerous procedures.
3. Ineffective family coping related to infertility.
4. Self-esteem disturbance related to infertility.
3. Which of the following urinary symptoms does the pregnant woman most frequently experience during the first trimester?
1. Dysuria
2. Frequency
3. Incontinence
4. Burning
4. Heartburn and flatulence, common in the second trimester, are most likely the result of which of the following?
1. Increased plasma HCG levels
2. Decreased intestinal motility
3. Decreased gastric acidity
4. Elevated estrogen levels
5. On which of the following areas would the nurse expect to observe chloasma?
1. Breast, areola, and nipples
2. Chest, neck, arms, and legs
3. Abdomen, breast, and thighs
4. Cheeks, forehead, and nose
6. A pregnant client states that she “waddles” when she walks. The nurse’s explanation is based on which of the following as the cause?
1. The large size of the newborn
2. Pressure on the pelvic muscles
3. Relaxation of the pelvic joints
4. Excessive weight gain
7. Which of the following represents the average amount of weight gained during pregnancy?
1. 12 to 22 lb
2. 15 to 25 lb
3. 24 to 30 lb
4. 25 to 40 lb
8. When talking with a pregnant client who is experiencing aching swollen, leg veins, the nurse would explain that this is most probably the result of which of the following?
1. Thrombophlebitis
2. Pregnancy-induced hypertension
3. Pressure on blood vessels from the enlarging uterus
4. The force of gravity pulling down on the uterus
9. Cervical softening and uterine souffle are classified as which of the following?
1. Diagnostic signs
2. Presumptive signs
3. Probable signs
4. Positive signs
10. Which of the following would the nurse identify as a presumptive sign of pregnancy?
1. Hegar sign
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Skin pigmentation changes
4. Positive serum pregnancy test
11. Which of the following common emotional reactions to pregnancy would the nurse expect to occur during the first trimester?
1. Introversion, egocentrism, narcissism
2. Awkwardness, clumsiness, and unattractiveness
3. Anxiety, passivity, extroversion
4. Ambivalence, fear, fantasies
12. During which of the following would the focus of classes be mainly on physiologic changes, fetal development, sexuality, during pregnancy, and nutrition?
1. Prepregnant period
2. First trimester
3. Second trimester
4. Third trimester
13. Which of the following would be disadvantage of breast feeding?
1. Involution occurs more rapidly
2. The incidence of allergies increases due to maternal antibodies
3. The father may resent the infant’s demands on the mother’s body
4. There is a greater chance for error during preparation
14. Which of the following would cause a false-positive result on a pregnancy test?
1. The test was performed less than 10 days after an abortion
2. The test was performed too early or too late in the pregnancy
3. The urine sample was stored too long at room temperature
4. A spontaneous abortion or a missed abortion is impending
15. FHR can be auscultated with a fetoscope as early as which of the following?
1. 5 weeks gestation
2. 10 weeks gestation
3. 15 weeks gestation
4. 20 weeks gestation
16. A client LMP began July 5. Her EDD should be which of the following?
1. January 2
2. March 28
3. April 12
4. October 12
17. Which of the following fundal heights indicates less than 12 weeks’ gestation when the date of the LMP is unknown?
1. Uterus in the pelvis
2. Uterus at the xiphoid
3. Uterus in the abdomen
4. Uterus at the umbilicus
18. Which of the following danger signs should be reported promptly during the antepartum period?
1. Constipation
2. Breast tenderness
3. Nasal stuffiness
4. Leaking amniotic fluid
19. Which of the following prenatal laboratory test values would the nurse consider as significant?
1. Hematocrit 33.5%
2. Rubella titer less than 1:8
3. White blood cells 8,000/mm3
4. One hour glucose challenge test 110 g/dL
20. Which of the following characteristics of contractions would the nurse expect to find in a client experiencing true labor?
1. Occurring at irregular intervals
2. Starting mainly in the abdomen
3. Gradually increasing intervals
4. Increasing intensity with walking
21. During which of the following stages of labor would the nurse assess “crowning”?
1. First stage
2. Second stage
3. Third stage
4. Fourth stage
22. Barbiturates are usually not given for pain relief during active labor for which of the following reasons?
1. The neonatal effects include hypotonia, hypothermia, generalized drowsiness, and reluctance to feed for the first few days.
2. These drugs readily cross the placental barrier, causing depressive effects in the newborn 2 to 3 hours after intramuscular injection.
3. They rapidly transfer across the placenta, and lack of an antagonist make them generally inappropriate during labor.
4. Adverse reactions may include maternal hypotension, allergic or toxic reaction or partial or total respiratory failure
23. Which of the following nursing interventions would the nurse perform during the third stage of labor?
1. Obtain a urine specimen and other laboratory tests.
2. Assess uterine contractions every 30 minutes.
3. Coach for effective client pushing
4. Promote parent-newborn interaction.
24. Which of the following actions demonstrates the nurse’s understanding about the newborn’s thermoregulatory ability?
1. Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer.
2. Suctioning with a bulb syringe
3. Obtaining an Apgar score
4. Inspecting the newborn’s umbilical cord
25. Immediately before expulsion, which of the following cardinal movements occur?
1. Descent
2. Flexion
3. Extension
4. External rotation
26. Before birth, which of the following structures connects the right and left auricles of the heart?
1. Umbilical vein
2. Foramen ovale
3. Ductus arteriosus
4. Ductus venosus
27. Which of the following when present in the urine may cause a reddish stain on the diaper of a newborn?
1. Mucus
2. Uric acid crystals
3. Bilirubin
4. Excess iron
28. When assessing the newborn’s heart rate, which of the following ranges would be considered normal if the newborn were sleeping?
1. 80 beats per minute
2. 100 beats per minute
3. 120 beats per minute
4. 140 beats per minute
29. Which of the following is true regarding the fontanels of the newborn?
1. The anterior is triangular shaped; the posterior is diamond shaped.
2. The posterior closes at 18 months; the anterior closes at 8 to 12 weeks.
3. The anterior is large in size when compared to the posterior fontanel.
4. The anterior is bulging; the posterior appears sunken.
30. Which of the following groups of newborn reflexes below are present at birth and remain unchanged through adulthood?
1. Blink, cough, rooting, and gag
2. Blink, cough, sneeze, gag
3. Rooting, sneeze, swallowing, and cough
4. Stepping, blink, cough, and sneeze
31. Which of the following describes the Babinski reflex?
1. The newborn’s toes will hyperextend and fan apart from dorsiflexion of the big toe when one side of foot is stroked upward from the ball of the heel and across the ball of the foot.
2. The newborn abducts and flexes all extremities and may begin to cry when exposed to sudden movement or loud noise.
3. The newborn turns the head in the direction of stimulus, opens the mouth, and begins to suck when cheek, lip, or corner of mouth is touched.
4. The newborn will attempt to crawl forward with both arms and legs when he is placed on his abdomen on a flat surface
32. Which of the following statements best describes hyperemesis gravidarum?
1. Severe anemia leading to electrolyte, metabolic, and nutritional imbalances in the absence of other medical problems.
2. Severe nausea and vomiting leading to electrolyte, metabolic, and nutritional imbalances in the absence of other medical problems.
3. Loss of appetite and continuous vomiting that commonly results in dehydration and ultimately decreasing maternal nutrients
4. Severe nausea and diarrhea that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and possibly internal bleeding
33. Which of the following would the nurse identify as a classic sign of PIH?
1. Edema of the feet and ankles
2. Edema of the hands and face
3. Weight gain of 1 lb/week
4. Early morning headache
34. In which of the following types of spontaneous abortions would the nurse assess dark brown vaginal discharge and a negative pregnancy tests?
1. Threatened
2. Imminent
3. Missed
4. Incomplete
35. Which of the following factors would the nurse suspect as predisposing a client to placenta previa?
1. Multiple gestation
2. Uterine anomalies
3. Abdominal trauma
4. Renal or vascular disease
36. Which of the following would the nurse assess in a client experiencing abruptio placenta?
1. Bright red, painless vaginal bleeding
2. Concealed or external dark red bleeding
3. Palpable fetal outline
4. Soft and nontender abdomen
37. Which of the following is described as premature separation of a normally implanted placenta during the second half of pregnancy, usually with severe hemorrhage?
1. Placenta previa
2. Ectopic pregnancy
3. Incompetent cervix
4. Abruptio placentae
38. Which of the following may happen if the uterus becomes overstimulated by oxytocin during the induction of labor?
1. Weak contraction prolonged to more than 70 seconds
2. Tetanic contractions prolonged to more than 90 seconds
3. Increased pain with bright red vaginal bleeding
4. Increased restlessness and anxiety
39. When preparing a client for cesarean delivery, which of the following key concepts should be considered when implementing nursing care?
1. Instruct the mother’s support person to remain in the family lounge until after the delivery
2. Arrange for a staff member of the anesthesia department to explain what to expect postoperatively
3. Modify preoperative teaching to meet the needs of either a planned or emergency cesarean birth
4. Explain the surgery, expected outcome, and kind of anesthetics
40. Which of the following best describes preterm labor?
1. Labor that begins after 20 weeks gestation and before 37 weeks gestation
2. Labor that begins after 15 weeks gestation and before 37 weeks gestation
3. Labor that begins after 24 weeks gestation and before 28 weeks gestation
4. Labor that begins after 28 weeks gestation and before 40 weeks gestation
41. When PROM occurs, which of the following provides evidence of the nurse’s understanding of the client’s immediate needs?
1. The chorion and amnion rupture 4 hours before the onset of labor.
2. PROM removes the fetus most effective defense against infection
3. Nursing care is based on fetal viability and gestational age.
4. PROM is associated with malpresentation and possibly incompetent cervix
42. Which of the following factors is the underlying cause of dystocia?
1. Nurtional
2. Mechanical
3. Environmental
4. Medical
43. When uterine rupture occurs, which of the following would be the priority?
1. Limiting hypovolemic shock
2. Obtaining blood specimens
3. Instituting complete bed rest
4. Inserting a urinary catheter
44. Which of the following is the nurse’s initial action when umbilical cord prolapse occurs?
1. Begin monitoring maternal vital signs and FHR
2. Place the client in a knee-chest position in bed
3. Notify the physician and prepare the client for delivery
4. Apply a sterile warm saline dressing to the exposed cord
45. Which of the following amounts of blood loss following birth marks the criterion for describing postpartum hemorrhage?
1. More than 200 ml
2. More than 300 ml
3. More than 400 ml
4. More than 500 ml
46. Which of the following is the primary predisposing factor related to mastitis?
1. Epidemic infection from nosocomial sources localizing in the lactiferous glands and ducts
2. Endemic infection occurring randomly and localizing in the periglandular connective tissue
3. Temporary urinary retention due to decreased perception of the urge to avoid
4. Breast injury caused by overdistention, stasis, and cracking of the nipples
47. Which of the following best describes thrombophlebitis?
1. Inflammation and clot formation that result when blood components combine to form an aggregate body
2. Inflammation and blood clots that eventually become lodged within the pulmonary blood vessels
3. Inflammation and blood clots that eventually become lodged within the femoral vein
4. Inflammation of the vascular endothelium with clot formation on the vessel wall
48. Which of the following assessment findings would the nurse expect if the client develops DVT?
1. Midcalf pain, tenderness and redness along the vein
2. Chills, fever, malaise, occurring 2 weeks after delivery
3. Muscle pain the presence of Homans sign, and swelling in the affected limb
4. Chills, fever, stiffness, and pain occurring 10 to 14 days after delivery
49. Which of the following are the most commonly assessed findings in cystitis?
1. Frequency, urgency, dehydration, nausea, chills, and flank pain
2. Nocturia, frequency, urgency dysuria, hematuria, fever and suprapubic pain
3. Dehydration, hypertension, dysuria, suprapubic pain, chills, and fever
4. High fever, chills, flank pain nausea, vomiting, dysuria, and frequency
50. Which of the following best reflects the frequency of reported postpartum “blues”?
1. Between 10% and 40% of all new mothers report some form of postpartum blues
2. Between 30% and 50% of all new mothers report some form of postpartum blues
3. Between 50% and 80% of all new mothers report some form of postpartum blues
4. Between 25% and 70% of all new mothers report some form of postpartum blues

ANSWER

1. B. Although all of the factors listed are important, sperm motility is the most significant criterion when assessing male infertility. Sperm count, sperm maturity, and semen volume are all significant, but they are not as significant sperm motility.
2. D. Based on the partner’s statement, the couple is verbalizing feelings of inadequacy and negative feelings about themselves and their capabilities. Thus, the nursing diagnosis of self-esteem disturbance is most appropriate. Fear, pain, and ineffective family coping also may be present but as secondary nursing diagnoses.
3. B. Pressure and irritation of the bladder by the growing uterus during the first trimester is responsible for causing urinary frequency. Dysuria, incontinence, and burning are symptoms associated with urinary tract infections.
4. C. During the second trimester, the reduction in gastric acidity in conjunction with pressure from the growing uterus and smooth muscle relaxation, can cause heartburn and flatulence. HCG levels increase in the first, not the second, trimester. Decrease intestinal motility would most likely be the cause of constipation and bloating. Estrogen levels decrease in the second trimester.
5. D. Chloasma, also called the mask of pregnancy, is an irregular hyperpigmented area found on the face. It is not seen on the breasts, areola, nipples, chest, neck, arms, legs, abdomen, or thighs.
6. C. During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause relaxation of the pelvic joints, resulting in the typical “waddling” gait. Changes in posture are related to the growing fetus. Pressure on the surrounding muscles causing discomfort is due to the growing uterus. Weight gain has no effect on gait.
7. C. The average amount of weight gained during pregnancy is 24 to 30 lb. This weight gain consists of the following: fetus – 7.5 lb; placenta and membrane – 1.5 lb; amniotic fluid – 2 lb; uterus – 2.5 lb; breasts – 3 lb; and increased blood volume – 2 to 4 lb; extravascular fluid and fat – 4 to 9 lb. A gain of 12 to 22 lb is insufficient, whereas a weight gain of 15 to 25 lb is marginal. A weight gain of 25 to 40 lb is considered excessive.
8. C. Pressure of the growing uterus on blood vessels results in an increased risk for venous stasis in the lower extremities. Subsequently, edema and varicose vein formation may occur. Thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of the veins due to thrombus formation. Pregnancy-induced hypertension is not associated with these symptoms. Gravity plays only a minor role with these symptoms.
9. C. Cervical softening (Goodell sign) and uterine soufflé are two probable signs of pregnancy. Probable signs are objective findings that strongly suggest pregnancy. Other probable signs include Hegar sign, which is softening of the lower uterine segment; Piskacek sign, which is enlargement and softening of the uterus; serum laboratory tests; changes in skin pigmentation; and ultrasonic evidence of a gestational sac. Presumptive signs are subjective signs and include amenorrhea; nausea and vomiting; urinary frequency; breast tenderness and changes; excessive fatigue; uterine enlargement; and quickening.
10. B. Presumptive signs of pregnancy are subjective signs. Of the signs listed, only nausea and vomiting are presumptive signs. Hegar sign, skin pigmentation changes, and a positive serum pregnancy test are considered probably signs, which are strongly suggestive of pregnancy.
11. D. During the first trimester, common emotional reactions include ambivalence, fear, fantasies, or anxiety. The second trimester is a period of well-being accompanied by the increased need to learn about fetal growth and development. Common emotional reactions during this trimester include narcissism, passivity, or introversion. At times the woman may seem egocentric and self-centered. During the third trimester, the woman typically feels awkward, clumsy, and unattractive, often becoming more introverted or reflective of her own childhood.
12. B. First-trimester classes commonly focus on such issues as early physiologic changes, fetal development, sexuality during pregnancy, and nutrition. Some early classes may include pregnant couples. Second and third trimester classes may focus on preparation for birth, parenting, and newborn care.
13. C. With breast feeding, the father’s body is not capable of providing the milk for the newborn, which may interfere with feeding the newborn, providing fewer chances for bonding, or he may be jealous of the infant’s demands on his wife’s time and body. Breast feeding is advantageous because uterine involution occurs more rapidly, thus minimizing blood loss. The presence of maternal antibodies in breast milk helps decrease the incidence of allergies in the newborn. A greater chance for error is associated with bottle feeding. No preparation is required for breast feeding.
14. A. A false-positive reaction can occur if the pregnancy test is performed less than 10 days after an abortion. Performing the tests too early or too late in the pregnancy, storing the urine sample too long at room temperature, or having a spontaneous or missed abortion impending can all produce false-negative results.
15. D. The FHR can be auscultated with a fetoscope at about 20 week’s gestation. FHR usually is ausculatated at the midline suprapubic region with Doppler ultrasound transducer at 10 to 12 week’s gestation. FHR, cannot be heard any earlier than 10 weeks’ gestation.
16. C. To determine the EDD when the date of the client’s LMP is known use Nagele rule. To the first day of the LMP, add 7 days, subtract 3 months, and add 1 year (if applicable) to arrive at the EDD as follows: 5 + 7 = 12 (July) minus 3 = 4 (April). Therefore, the client’s EDD is April 12.
17. A. When the LMP is unknown, the gestational age of the fetus is estimated by uterine size or position (fundal height). The presence of the uterus in the pelvis indicates less than 12 weeks’ gestation. At approximately 12 to 14 weeks, the fundus is out of the pelvis above the symphysis pubis. The fundus is at the level of the umbilicus at approximately 20 weeks’ gestation and reaches the xiphoid at term or 40 weeks.
18. D. Danger signs that require prompt reporting leaking of amniotic fluid, vaginal bleeding, blurred vision, rapid weight gain, and elevated blood pressure. Constipation, breast tenderness, and nasal stuffiness are common discomforts associated with pregnancy.
19. B. A rubella titer should be 1:8 or greater. Thurs, a finding of a titer less than 1:8 is significant, indicating that the client may not possess immunity to rubella. A hematocrit of 33.5% a white blood cell count of 8,000/mm3, and a 1 hour glucose challenge test of 110 g/dl are with normal parameters.
20. D. With true labor, contractions increase in intensity with walking. In addition, true labor contractions occur at regular intervals, usually starting in the back and sweeping around to the abdomen. The interval of true labor contractions gradually shortens.
21. B. Crowing, which occurs when the newborn’s head or presenting part appears at the vaginal opening, occurs during the second stage of labor. During the first stage of labor, cervical dilation and effacement occur. During the third stage of labor, the newborn and placenta are delivered. The fourth stage of labor lasts from 1 to 4 hours after birth, during which time the mother and newborn recover from the physical process of birth and the mother’s organs undergo the initial readjustment to the nonpregnant state.
22. C. Barbiturates are rapidly transferred across the placental barrier, and lack of an antagonist makes them generally inappropriate during active labor. Neonatal side effects of barbiturates include central nervous system depression, prolonged drowsiness, delayed establishment of feeding (e.g. due to poor sucking reflex or poor sucking pressure). Tranquilizers are associated with neonatal effects such as hypotonia, hypothermia, generalized drowsiness, and reluctance to feed for the first few days. Narcotic analgesic readily cross the placental barrier, causing depressive effects in the newborn 2 to 3 hours after intramuscular injection. Regional anesthesia is associated with adverse reactions such as maternal hypotension, allergic or toxic reaction, or partial or total respiratory failure.
23. D. During the third stage of labor, which begins with the delivery of the newborn, the nurse would promote parent-newborn interaction by placing the newborn on the mother’s abdomen and encouraging the parents to touch the newborn. Collecting a urine specimen and other laboratory tests is done on admission during the first stage of labor. Assessing uterine contractions every 30 minutes is performed during the latent phase of the first stage of labor. Coaching the client to push effectively is appropriate during the second stage of labor.
24. A. The newborn’s ability to regulate body temperature is poor. Therefore, placing the newborn under a radiant warmer aids in maintaining his or her body temperature. Suctioning with a bulb syringe helps maintain a patent airway. Obtaining an Apgar score measures the newborn’s immediate adjustment to extrauterine life. Inspecting the umbilical cord aids in detecting cord anomalies.
25. D. Immediately before expulsion or birth of the rest of the body, the cardinal movement of external rotation occurs. Descent flexion, internal rotation, extension, and restitution (in this order) occur before external rotation.
26. B. The foramen ovale is an opening between the right and left auricles (atria) that should close shortly after birth so the newborn will not have a murmur or mixed blood traveling through the vascular system. The umbilical vein, ductus arteriosus, and ductus venosus are obliterated at birth.
27. B. Uric acid crystals in the urine may produce the reddish “brick dust” stain on the diaper. Mucus would not produce a stain. Bilirubin and iron are from hepatic adaptation.
28. B. The normal heart rate for a newborn that is sleeping is approximately 100 beats per minute. If the newborn was awake, the normal heart rate would range from 120 to 160 beats per minute.
29. C. The anterior fontanel is larger in size than the posterior fontanel. Additionally, the anterior fontanel, which is diamond shaped, closes at 18 months, whereas the posterior fontanel, which is triangular shaped, closes at  8 to 12 weeks. Neither fontanel should appear bulging, which may indicate increased intracranial pressure, or sunken, which may indicate dehydration.
30. B. Blink, cough, sneeze, swallowing and gag reflexes are all present at birth and remain unchanged through adulthood. Reflexes such as rooting and stepping subside within the first year.
31. A. With the babinski reflex, the newborn’s toes hyperextend and fan apart from dorsiflexion of the big toe when one side of foot is stroked upward form the heel and across the ball of the foot. With the startle reflex, the newborn abducts and flexes all extremities and may begin to cry when exposed to sudden movement of loud noise. With the rooting and sucking reflex, the newborn turns his head in the direction of stimulus, opens the mouth, and begins to suck when the cheeks, lip, or corner of mouth is touched. With the crawl reflex, the newborn will attempt to crawl forward with both arms and legs when he is placed on his abdomen on a flat surface.
32. B. The description of hyperemesis gravidarum includes severe nausea and vomiting, leading to electrolyte, metabolic, and nutritional imbalances in the absence of other medical problems. Hyperemesis is not a form of anemia. Loss of appetite may occur secondary to the nausea and vomiting of hyperemesis, which, if it continues, can deplete the nutrients transported to the fetus. Diarrhea does not occur with hyperemesis.
33. B. Edema of the hands and face is a classic sign of PIH. Many healthy pregnant woman experience foot and ankle edema. A weight gain of 2 lb or more per week indicates a problem. Early morning headache is not a classic sign of PIH.
34. C. In a missed abortion, there is early fetal intrauterine death, and products of conception are not expelled. The cervix remains closed; there may be a dark brown vaginal discharge, negative pregnancy test, and cessation of uterine growth and breast tenderness. A threatened abortion is evidenced with cramping and vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, with no cervical dilation. An incomplete abortion presents with bleeding, cramping, and cervical dilation. An incomplete abortion involves only expulsion of part of the products of conception and bleeding occurs with cervical dilation.
35. A. Multiple gestation is one of the predisposing factors that may cause placenta previa. Uterine anomalies abdominal trauma, and renal or vascular disease may predispose a client to abruptio placentae.
36. B. A client with abruptio placentae may exhibit concealed or dark red bleeding, possibly reporting sudden intense localized uterine pain. The uterus is typically firm to boardlike, and the fetal presenting part may be engaged. Bright red, painless vaginal bleeding, a palpable fetal outline and a soft nontender abdomen are manifestations of placenta previa.
37. D. Abruptio placentae is described as premature separation of a normally implanted placenta during the second half of pregnancy, usually with severe hemorrhage. Placenta previa refers to implantation of the placenta in the lower uterine segment, causing painless bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy refers to the implantation of the products of conception in a site other than the endometrium. Incompetent cervix is a conduction characterized by painful dilation of the cervical os without uterine contractions.
38. B. Hyperstimulation of the uterus such as with oxytocin during the induction of labor may result in tetanic contractions prolonged to more than 90seconds, which could lead to such complications as fetal distress, abruptio placentae, amniotic fluid embolism, laceration of the cervix, and uterine rupture. Weak contractions would not occur. Pain, bright red vaginal bleeding, and increased restlessness and anxiety are not associated with hyperstimulation.
39. C. A key point to consider when preparing the client for a cesarean delivery is to modify the preoperative teaching to meet the needs of either a planned or emergency cesarean birth, the depth and breadth of instruction will depend on circumstances and time available. Allowing the mother’s support person to remain with her as much as possible is an important concept, although doing so depends on many variables. Arranging for necessary explanations by various staff members to be involved with the client’s care is a nursing responsibility. The nurse is responsible for reinforcing the explanations about the surgery, expected outcome, and type of anesthetic to be used. The obstetrician is responsible for explaining about the surgery and outcome and the anesthesiology staff is responsible for explanations about the type of anesthesia to be used.
40. A. Preterm labor is best described as labor that begins after 20 weeks’ gestation and before 37 weeks’ gestation. The other time periods are inaccurate.
41. B. PROM can precipitate many potential and actual problems; one of the most serious is the fetus loss of an effective defense against infection. This is the client’s most immediate need at this time. Typically, PROM occurs about 1 hour, not 4 hours, before labor begins. Fetal viability and gestational age are less immediate considerations that affect the plan of care. Malpresentation and an incompetent cervix may be causes of PROM.
42. B. Dystocia is difficult, painful, prolonged labor due to mechanical factors involving the fetus (passenger), uterus (powers), pelvis (passage), or psyche. Nutritional, environment, and medical factors may contribute to the mechanical factors that cause dystocia.
43. A. With uterine rupture, the client is at risk for hypovolemic shock. Therefore, the priority is to prevent and limit hypovolemic shock. Immediate steps should include giving oxygen, replacing lost fluids, providing drug therapy as needed, evaluating fetal responses and preparing for surgery. Obtaining blood specimens, instituting complete bed rest, and inserting a urinary catheter are necessary in preparation for surgery to remedy the rupture.
44. B. The immediate priority is to minimize pressure on the cord. Thus the nurse’s initial action involves placing the client on bed rest and then placing the client in a knee-chest position or lowering the head of the bed, and elevating the maternal hips on a pillow to minimize the pressure on the cord. Monitoring maternal vital signs and FHR, notifying the physician and preparing the client for delivery, and wrapping the cord with sterile saline soaked warm gauze are important. But these actions have no effect on minimizing the pressure on the cord.
45. D. Postpartum hemorrhage is defined as blood loss of more than 500 ml following birth. Any amount less than this not considered postpartum hemorrhage.
46. D. With mastitis, injury to the breast, such as overdistention, stasis, and cracking of the nipples, is the primary predisposing factor. Epidemic and endemic infections are probable sources of infection for mastitis. Temporary urinary retention due to decreased perception of the urge to void is a contributory factor to the development of urinary tract infection, not mastitis.
47. D. Thrombophlebitis refers to an inflammation of the vascular endothelium with clot formation on the wall of the vessel. Blood components combining to form an aggregate body describe a thrombus or thrombosis. Clots lodging in the pulmonary vasculature refers to pulmonary embolism; in the femoral vein, femoral thrombophlebitis.
48. C. Classic symptoms of DVT include muscle pain, the presence of Homans sign, and swelling of the affected limb. Midcalf pain, tenderness, and redness, along the vein reflect superficial thrombophlebitis. Chills, fever and malaise occurring 2 weeks after delivery reflect pelvic thrombophlebitis. Chills, fever,  stiffness and pain occurring 10 to 14 days after delivery suggest femoral thrombophlebitis.
49. B. Manifestations of cystitis include, frequency, urgency, dysuria, hematuria nocturia, fever, and suprapubic pain. Dehydration, hypertension, and chills are not typically associated with cystitis. High fever chills, flank pain, nausea, vomiting, dysuria, and frequency are associated with pvelonephritis.
50. C. According to statistical reports, between 50% and 80% of all new mothers report some form of postpartum blues. The ranges of 10% to 40%, 30% to 50%, and 25% to 70% are incorrect.

Maternal and Child Health Practice Test Part 2

1. For the client who is using oral contraceptives, the nurse informs the client about the need to take the pill at the same time each day to accomplish which of the following?
1. Decrease the incidence of nausea
2. Maintain hormonal levels
3. Reduce side effects
4. Prevent drug interactions
2. When teaching a client about contraception. Which of the following would the nurse include as the most effective method for preventing sexually transmitted infections?
1. Spermicides
2. Diaphragm
3. Condoms
4. Vasectomy
3. When preparing a woman who is 2 days postpartum for discharge, recommendations for which of the following contraceptive methods would be avoided?
1. Diaphragm
2. Female condom
3. Oral contraceptives
4. Rhythm method
4. For which of the following clients would the nurse expect that an intrauterine device would not be recommended?
1. Woman over age 35
2. Nulliparous woman
3. Promiscuous young adult
4. Postpartum client
5. A client in her third trimester tells the nurse, “I’m constipated all the time!” Which of the following should the nurse recommend?
1. Daily enemas
2. Laxatives
3. Increased fiber intake
4. Decreased fluid intake
6. Which of the following would the nurse use as the basis for the teaching plan when caring for a pregnant teenager concerned about gaining too much weight during pregnancy?
1. 10 pounds per trimester
2. 1 pound per week for 40 weeks
3. ½ pound per week for 40 weeks
4. A total gain of 25 to 30 pounds
7. The client tells the nurse that her last menstrual period started on January 14 and ended on January 20. Using Nagele’s rule, the nurse determines her EDD to be which of the following?
1. September 27
2. October 21
3. November 7
4. December 27
8. When taking an obstetrical history on a pregnant client who states, “I had a son born at 38 weeks gestation, a daughter born at 30 weeks gestation and I lost a baby at about 8 weeks,” the nurse should record her obstetrical history as which of the following?
1. G2 T2 P0 A0 L2
2. G3 T1 P1 A0 L2
3. G3 T2 P0 A0 L2
4. G4 T1 P1 A1 L2
9. When preparing to listen to the fetal heart rate at 12 weeks’ gestation, the nurse would use which of the following?
1. Stethoscope placed midline at the umbilicus
2. Doppler placed midline at the suprapubic region
3. Fetoscope placed midway between the umbilicus and the xiphoid process
4. External electronic fetal monitor placed at the umbilicus
10. When developing a plan of care for a client newly diagnosed with gestational diabetes, which of the following instructions would be the priority?
1. Dietary intake
2. Medication
3. Exercise
4. Glucose monitoring
11. A client at 24 weeks gestation has gained 6 pounds in 4 weeks. Which of the following would be the priority when assessing the client?
1. Glucosuria
2. Depression
3. Hand/face edema
4. Dietary intake
12. A client 12 weeks’ pregnant come to the emergency department with abdominal cramping and moderate vaginal bleeding. Speculum examination reveals 2 to 3 cms cervical dilation. The nurse would document these findings as which of the following?
1. Threatened abortion
2. Imminent abortion
3. Complete abortion
4. Missed abortion
13. Which of the following would be the priority nursing diagnosis for a client with an ectopic pregnancy?
1. Risk for infection
2. Pain
3. Knowledge Deficit
4. Anticipatory Grieving
14. Before assessing the postpartum client’s uterus for firmness and position in relation to the umbilicus and midline, which of the following should the nurse do first?
1. Assess the vital signs
2. Administer analgesia
3. Ambulate her in the hall
4. Assist her to urinate
15. Which of the following should the nurse do when a primipara who is lactating tells the nurse that she has sore nipples?
1. Tell her to breast feed more frequently
2. Administer a narcotic before breast feeding
3. Encourage her to wear a nursing brassiere
4. Use soap and water to clean the nipples
16. The nurse assesses the vital signs of a client, 4 hours’ postpartum that are as follows: BP 90/60; temperature 100.4ºF; pulse 100 weak, thready; R 20 per minute. Which of the following should the nurse do first?
1. Report the temperature to the physician
2. Recheck the blood pressure with another cuff
3. Assess the uterus for firmness and position
4. Determine the amount of lochia
17. The nurse assesses the postpartum vaginal discharge (lochia) on four clients. Which of the following assessments would warrant notification of the physician?
1. A dark red discharge on a 2-day postpartum client
2. A pink to brownish discharge on a client who is 5 days postpartum
3. Almost colorless to creamy discharge on a client 2 weeks after delivery
4. A bright red discharge 5 days after delivery
18. A postpartum client has a temperature of 101.4ºF, with a uterus that is tender when palpated, remains unusually large, and not descending as normally expected. Which of the following should the nurse assess next?
1. Lochia
2. Breasts
3. Incision
4. Urine
19. Which of the following is the priority focus of nursing practice with the current early postpartum discharge?
1. Promoting comfort and restoration of health
2. Exploring the emotional status of the family
3. Facilitating safe and effective self-and newborn care
4. Teaching about the importance of family planning
20. Which of the following actions would be least effective in maintaining a neutral thermal environment for the newborn?
1. Placing infant under radiant warmer after bathing
2. Covering the scale with a warmed blanket prior to weighing
3. Placing crib close to nursery window for family viewing
4. Covering the infant’s head with a knit stockinette
21. A newborn who has an asymmetrical Moro reflex response should be further assessed for which of the following?
1. Talipes equinovarus
2. Fractured clavicle
3. Congenital hypothyroidism
4. Increased intracranial pressure
22. During the first 4 hours after a male circumcision, assessing for which of the following is the priority?
1. Infection
2. Hemorrhage
3. Discomfort
4. Dehydration
23. The mother asks the nurse. “What’s wrong with my son’s breasts? Why are they so enlarged?” Whish of the following would be the best response by the nurse?
1. “The breast tissue is inflamed from the trauma experienced with birth”
2. “A decrease in material hormones present before birth causes enlargement,”
3. “You should discuss this with your doctor. It could be a malignancy”
4. “The tissue has hypertrophied while the baby was in the uterus”
24. Immediately after birth the nurse notes the following on a male newborn: respirations 78; apical hearth rate 160 BPM, nostril flaring; mild intercostal retractions; and grunting at the end of expiration. Which of the following should the nurse do?
1. Call the assessment data to the physician’s attention
2. Start oxygen per nasal cannula at 2 L/min.
3. Suction the infant’s mouth and nares
4. Recognize this as normal first period of reactivity
25. The nurse hears a mother telling a friend on the telephone about umbilical cord care. Which of the following statements by the mother indicates effective teaching?
1. “Daily soap and water cleansing is best”
2. ‘Alcohol helps it dry and kills germs”
3. “An antibiotic ointment applied daily prevents infection”
4. “He can have a tub bath each day”
26. A newborn weighing 3000 grams and feeding every 4 hours needs 120 calories/kg of body weight every 24 hours for proper growth and development. How many ounces of 20 cal/oz formula should this newborn receive at each feeding to meet nutritional needs?
1. 2 ounces
2. 3 ounces
3. 4 ounces
4. 6 ounces
27. The postterm neonate with meconium-stained amniotic fluid needs care designed to especially monitor for which of the following?
1. Respiratory problems
2. Gastrointestinal problems
3. Integumentary problems
4. Elimination problems
28. When measuring a client’s fundal height, which of the following techniques denotes the correct method of measurement used by the nurse?
1. From the xiphoid process to the umbilicus
2. From the symphysis pubis to the xiphoid process
3. From the symphysis pubis to the fundus
4. From the fundus to the umbilicus
29. A client with severe preeclampsia is admitted with of BP 160/110, proteinuria, and severe pitting edema. Which of the following would be most important to include in the client’s plan of care?
1. Daily weights
2. Seizure precautions
3. Right lateral positioning
4. Stress reduction
30. A postpartum primipara asks the nurse, “When can we have sexual intercourse again?” Which of the following would be the nurse’s best response?
1. “Anytime you both want to.”
2. “As soon as choose a contraceptive method.”
3. “When the discharge has stopped and the incision is healed.”
4. “After your 6 weeks examination.”
31. When preparing to administer the vitamin K injection to a neonate, the nurse would select which of the following sites as appropriate for the injection?
1. Deltoid muscle
2. Anterior femoris muscle
3. Vastus lateralis muscle
4. Gluteus maximus muscle
32. When performing a pelvic examination, the nurse observes a red swollen area on the right side of the vaginal orifice. The nurse would document this as enlargement of which of the following?
1. Clitoris
2. Parotid gland
3. Skene’s gland
4. Bartholin’s gland
33. To differentiate as a female, the hormonal stimulation of the embryo that must occur involves which of the following?
1. Increase in maternal estrogen secretion
2. Decrease in maternal androgen secretion
3. Secretion of androgen by the fetal gonad
4. Secretion of estrogen by the fetal gonad
34. A client at 8 weeks’ gestation calls complaining of slight nausea in the morning hours. Which of the following client interventions should the nurse question?
1. Taking 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in an 8-ounce glass of water
2. Eating a few low-sodium crackers before getting out of bed
3. Avoiding the intake of liquids in the morning hours
4. Eating six small meals a day instead of thee large meals
35. The nurse documents positive ballottement in the client’s prenatal record. The nurse understands that this indicates which of the following?
1. Palpable contractions on the abdomen
2. Passive movement of the unengaged fetus
3. Fetal kicking felt by the client
4. Enlargement and softening of the uterus
36. During a pelvic exam the nurse notes a purple-blue tinge of the cervix. The nurse documents this as which of the following?
1. Braxton-Hicks sign
2. Chadwick’s sign
3. Goodell’s sign
4. McDonald’s sign
37. During a prenatal class, the nurse explains the rationale for breathing techniques during preparation for labor based on the understanding that breathing techniques are most important in achieving which of the following?
1. Eliminate pain and give the expectant parents something to do
2. Reduce the risk of fetal distress by increasing uteroplacental perfusion
3. Facilitate relaxation, possibly reducing the perception of pain
4. Eliminate pain so that less analgesia and anesthesia are needed
38. After 4 hours of active labor, the nurse notes that the contractions of a primigravida client are not strong enough to dilate the cervix. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate doing?
1. Obtaining an order to begin IV oxytocin infusion
2. Administering a light sedative to allow the patient to rest for several hour
3. Preparing for a cesarean section for failure to progress
4. Increasing the encouragement to the patient when pushing begins
39. A multigravida at 38 weeks’ gestation is admitted with painless, bright red bleeding and mild contractions every 7 to 10 minutes. Which of the following assessments should be avoided?
1. Maternal vital sign
2. Fetal heart rate
3. Contraction monitoring
4. Cervical dilation
40. Which of the following would be the nurse’s most appropriate response to a client who asks why she must have a cesarean delivery if she has a complete placenta previa?
1. “You will have to ask your physician when he returns.”
2. “You need a cesarean to prevent hemorrhage.”
3. “The placenta is covering most of your cervix.”
4. “The placenta is covering the opening of the uterus and blocking your baby.”
41. The nurse understands that the fetal head is in which of the following positions with a face presentation?
1. Completely flexed
2. Completely extended
3. Partially extended
4. Partially flexed
42. With a fetus in the left-anterior breech presentation, the nurse would expect the fetal heart rate would be most audible in which of the following areas?
1. Above the maternal umbilicus and to the right of midline
2. In the lower-left maternal abdominal quadrant
3. In the lower-right maternal abdominal quadrant
4. Above the maternal umbilicus and to the left of midline
43. The amniotic fluid of a client has a greenish tint. The nurse interprets this to be the result of which of the following?
1. Lanugo
2. Hydramnio
3. Meconium
4. Vernix
44. A patient is in labor and has just been told she has a breech presentation. The nurse should be particularly alert for which of the following?
1. Quickening
2. Ophthalmia neonatorum
3. Pica
4. Prolapsed umbilical cord
45. When describing dizygotic twins to a couple, on which of the following would the nurse base the explanation?
1. Two ova fertilized by separate sperm
2. Sharing of a common placenta
3. Each ova with the same genotype
4. Sharing of a common chorion
46. Which of the following refers to the single cell that reproduces itself after conception?
1. Chromosome
2. Blastocyst
3. Zygote
4. Trophoblast
47. In the late 1950s, consumers and health care professionals began challenging the routine use of analgesics and anesthetics during childbirth. Which of the following was an outgrowth of this concept?
1. Labor, delivery, recovery, postpartum (LDRP)
2. Nurse-midwifery
3. Clinical nurse specialist
4. Prepared childbirth
48. A client has a midpelvic contracture from a previous pelvic injury due to a motor vehicle accident as a teenager. The nurse is aware that this could prevent a fetus from passing through or around which structure during childbirth?
1. Symphysis pubis
2. Sacral promontory
3. Ischial spines
4. Pubic arch
49. When teaching a group of adolescents about variations in the length of the menstrual cycle, the nurse understands that the underlying mechanism is due to variations in which of the following phases?
1. Menstrual phase
2. Proliferative phase
3. Secretory phase
4. Ischemic phase
50. When teaching a group of adolescents about male hormone production, which of the following would the nurse include as being produced by the Leydig cells?
1. Follicle-stimulating hormone
2. Testosterone
3. Leuteinizing hormone
4. Gonadotropin releasing hormone

ANSWER

1. B. Regular timely ingestion of oral contraceptives is necessary to maintain hormonal levels of the drugs to suppress the action of the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary leading to inappropriate secretion of FSH and LH. Therefore, follicles do not mature, ovulation is inhibited, and pregnancy is prevented. The estrogen content of the oral site contraceptive may cause the nausea, regardless of when the pill is taken. Side effects and drug interactions may occur with oral contraceptives regardless of the time the pill is taken.
2. C. Condoms, when used correctly and consistently, are the most effective contraceptive method or barrier against bacterial and viral sexually transmitted infections. Although spermicides kill sperm, they do not provide reliable protection against the spread of sexually transmitted infections, especially intracellular organisms such as HIV. Insertion and removal of the diaphragm along with the use of the spermicides may cause vaginal irritations, which could place the client at risk for infection transmission. Male sterilization eliminates spermatozoa from the ejaculate, but it does not eliminate bacterial and/or viral microorganisms that can cause sexually transmitted infections.
3. A. The diaphragm must be fitted individually to ensure effectiveness. Because of the changes to the reproductive structures during pregnancy and following delivery, the diaphragm must be refitted, usually at the 6 weeks’ examination following childbirth or after a weight loss of 15 lbs or more. In addition, for maximum effectiveness, spermicidal jelly should be placed in the dome and around the rim. However, spermicidal jelly should not be inserted into the vagina until involution is completed at approximately 6 weeks. Use of a female condom protects the reproductive system from the introduction of semen or spermicides into the vagina and may be used after childbirth. Oral contraceptives may be started within the first postpartum week to ensure suppression of ovulation. For the couple who has determined the female’s fertile period, using the rhythm method, avoidance of intercourse during this period, is safe and effective.
4. C. An IUD may increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, especially in women with more than one sexual partner, because of the increased risk of sexually transmitted infections. An UID should not be used if the woman has an active or chronic pelvic infection, postpartum infection, endometrial hyperplasia or carcinoma, or uterine abnormalities. Age is not a factor in determining the risks associated with IUD use. Most IUD users are over the age of 30. Although there is a slightly higher risk for infertility in women who have never been pregnant, the IUD is an acceptable option as long as the risk-benefit ratio is discussed. IUDs may be inserted immediately after delivery, but this is not recommended because of the increased risk and rate of expulsion at this time.
5. C. During the third trimester, the enlarging uterus places pressure on the intestines. This coupled with the effect of hormones on smooth muscle relaxation causes decreased intestinal motility (peristalsis). Increasing fiber in the diet will help fecal matter pass more quickly through the intestinal tract, thus decreasing the amount of water that is absorbed. As a result, stool is softer and easier to pass. Enemas could precipitate preterm labor and/or electrolyte loss and should be avoided. Laxatives may cause preterm labor by stimulating peristalsis and may interfere with the absorption of nutrients. Use for more than 1 week can also lead to laxative dependency. Liquid in the diet helps provide a semisolid, soft consistency to the stool. Eight to ten glasses of fluid per day are essential to maintain hydration and promote stool evacuation.
6. D. To ensure adequate fetal growth and development during the 40 weeks of a pregnancy, a total weight gain 25 to 30 pounds is recommended: 1.5 pounds in the first 10 weeks; 9 pounds by 30 weeks; and 27.5 pounds by 40 weeks. The pregnant woman should gain less weight in the first and second trimester than in the third. During the first trimester, the client should only gain 1.5 pounds in the first 10 weeks, not 1 pound per week. A weight gain of ½ pound per week would be 20 pounds for the total pregnancy, less than the recommended amount.
7. B. To calculate the EDD by Nagele’s rule, add 7 days to the first day of the last menstrual period and count back 3 months, changing the year appropriately. To obtain a date of September 27, 7 days have been added to the last day of the LMP (rather than the first day of the LMP), plus 4 months (instead of 3 months) were counted back. To obtain the date of November 7, 7 days have been subtracted (instead of added) from the first day of LMP plus November indicates counting back 2 months (instead of 3 months) from January. To obtain the date of December 27, 7 days were added to the last day of the LMP (rather than the first day of the LMP) and December indicates counting back only 1 month (instead of 3 months) from January.
8. D. The client has been pregnant four times, including current pregnancy (G). Birth at 38 weeks’ gestation is considered full term (T), while birth form 20 weeks to 38 weeks is considered preterm (P). A spontaneous abortion occurred at 8 weeks (A). She has two living children (L).
9. B. At 12 weeks gestation, the uterus rises out of the pelvis and is palpable above the symphysis pubis. The Doppler intensifies the sound of the fetal pulse rate so it is audible. The uterus has merely risen out of the pelvis into the abdominal cavity and is not at the level of the umbilicus. The fetal heart rate at this age is not audible with a stethoscope. The uterus at 12 weeks is just above the symphysis pubis in the abdominal cavity, not midway between the umbilicus and the xiphoid process. At 12 weeks the FHR would be difficult to auscultate with a fetoscope. Although the external electronic fetal monitor would project the FHR, the uterus has not risen to the umbilicus at 12 weeks.
10. A. Although all of the choices are important in the management of diabetes, diet therapy is the mainstay of the treatment plan and should always be the priority. Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes generally need only diet therapy without medication to control their blood sugar levels. Exercise, is important for all pregnant women and especially for diabetic women, because it burns up glucose, thus decreasing blood sugar. However, dietary intake, not exercise, is the priority. All pregnant women with diabetes should have periodic monitoring of serum glucose. However, those with gestational diabetes generally do not need daily glucose monitoring. The standard of care recommends a fasting and 2-hour postprandial blood sugar level every 2 weeks.
11. C. After 20 weeks’ gestation, when there is a rapid weight gain, preeclampsia should be suspected, which may be caused by fluid retention manifested by edema, especially of the hands and face. The three classic signs of preeclampsia are hypertension, edema, and proteinuria. Although urine is checked for glucose at each clinic visit, this is not the priority. Depression may cause either anorexia or excessive food intake, leading to excessive weight gain or loss. This is not, however, the priority consideration at this time. Weight gain thought to be caused by excessive food intake would require a 24-hour diet recall. However, excessive intake would not be the primary consideration for this client at this time.
12. B. Cramping and vaginal bleeding coupled with cervical dilation signifies that termination of the pregnancy is inevitable and cannot be prevented. Thus, the nurse would document an imminent abortion. In a threatened abortion, cramping and vaginal bleeding are present, but there is no cervical dilation. The symptoms may subside or progress to abortion. In a complete abortion all the products of conception are expelled. A missed abortion is early fetal intrauterine death without expulsion of the products of conception.
13. B. For the client with an ectopic pregnancy, lower abdominal pain, usually unilateral, is the primary symptom. Thus, pain is the priority. Although the potential for infection is always present, the risk is low in ectopic pregnancy because pathogenic microorganisms have not been introduced from external sources. The client may have a limited knowledge of the pathology and treatment of the condition and will most likely experience grieving, but this is not the priority at this time.
14. D. Before uterine assessment is performed, it is essential that the woman empty her bladder. A full bladder will interfere with the accuracy of the assessment by elevating the uterus and displacing to the side of the midline. Vital sign assessment is not necessary unless an abnormality in uterine assessment is identified. Uterine assessment should not cause acute pain that requires administration of analgesia. Ambulating the client is an essential component of postpartum care, but is not necessary prior to assessment of the uterus.
15. A. Feeding more frequently, about every 2 hours, will decrease the infant’s frantic, vigorous sucking from hunger and will decrease breast engorgement, soften the breast, and promote ease of correct latching-on for feeding. Narcotics administered prior to breast feeding are passed through the breast milk to the infant, causing excessive sleepiness. Nipple soreness is not severe enough to warrant narcotic analgesia. All postpartum clients, especially lactating mothers, should wear a supportive brassiere with wide cotton straps. This does not, however, prevent or reduce nipple soreness. Soaps are drying to the skin of the nipples and should not be used on the breasts of lactating mothers. Dry nipple skin predisposes to cracks and fissures, which can become sore and painful.
16. D. A weak, thready pulse elevated to 100 BPM may indicate impending hemorrhagic shock. An increased pulse is a compensatory mechanism of the body in response to decreased fluid volume. Thus, the nurse should check the amount of lochia present. Temperatures up to 100.48F in the first 24 hours after birth are related to the dehydrating effects of labor and are considered normal. Although rechecking the blood pressure may be a correct choice of action, it is not the first action that should be implemented in light of the other data. The data indicate a potential impending hemorrhage. Assessing the uterus for firmness and position in relation to the umbilicus and midline is important, but the nurse should check the extent of vaginal bleeding first. Then it would be appropriate to check the uterus, which may be a possible cause of the hemorrhage.
17. D. Any bright red vaginal discharge would be considered abnormal, but especially 5 days after delivery, when the lochia is typically pink to brownish. Lochia rubra, a dark red discharge, is present for 2 to 3 days after delivery. Bright red vaginal bleeding at this time suggests late postpartum hemorrhage, which occurs after the first 24 hours following delivery and is generally caused by retained placental fragments or bleeding disorders. Lochia rubra is the normal dark red discharge occurring in the first 2 to 3 days after delivery, containing epithelial cells, erythrocyes, leukocytes and decidua. Lochia serosa is a pink to brownish serosanguineous discharge occurring from 3 to 10 days after delivery that contains decidua, erythrocytes, leukocytes, cervical mucus, and microorganisms. Lochia alba is an almost colorless to yellowish discharge occurring from 10 days to 3 weeks after delivery and containing leukocytes, decidua, epithelial cells, fat, cervical mucus, cholesterol crystals, and bacteria.
18. A. The data suggests an infection of the endometrial lining of the uterus. The lochia may be decreased or copious, dark brown in appearance, and foul smelling, providing further evidence of a possible infection. All the client’s data indicate a uterine problem, not a breast problem. Typically, transient fever, usually 101ºF, may be present with breast engorgement. Symptoms of mastitis include influenza-like manifestations. Localized infection of an episiotomy or C-section incision rarely causes systemic symptoms, and uterine involution would not be affected. The client data do not include dysuria, frequency, or urgency, symptoms of urinary tract infections, which would necessitate assessing the client’s urine.
19. C. Because of early postpartum discharge and limited time for teaching, the nurse’s priority is to facilitate the safe and effective care of the client and newborn. Although promoting comfort and restoration of health, exploring the family’s emotional status, and teaching about family planning are important in postpartum/newborn nursing care, they are not the priority focus in the limited time presented by early post-partum discharge.
20. C. Heat loss by radiation occurs when the infant’s crib is placed too near cold walls or windows. Thus placing the newborn’s crib close to the viewing window would be least effective. Body heat is lost through evaporation during bathing. Placing the infant under the radiant warmer after bathing will assist the infant to be rewarmed. Covering the scale with a warmed blanket prior to weighing prevents heat loss through conduction. A knit cap prevents heat loss from the head a large head, a large body surface area of the newborn’s body.
21. B. A fractured clavicle would prevent the normal Moro response of symmetrical sequential extension and abduction of the arms followed by flexion and adduction. In talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) the foot is turned medially, and in plantar flexion, with the heel elevated. The feet are not involved with the Moro reflex. Hypothyroiddism has no effect on the primitive reflexes. Absence of the Moror reflex is the most significant single indicator of central nervous system status, but it is not a sign of increased intracranial pressure.
22. B. Hemorrhage is a potential risk following any surgical procedure. Although the infant has been given vitamin K to facilitate clotting, the prophylactic dose is often not sufficient to prevent bleeding. Although infection is a possibility, signs will not appear within 4 hours after the surgical procedure. The primary discomfort of circumcision occurs during the surgical procedure, not afterward. Although feedings are withheld prior to the circumcision, the chances of dehydration are minimal.
23. B. The presence of excessive estrogen and progesterone in the maternal-fetal blood followed by prompt withdrawal at birth precipitates breast engorgement, which will spontaneously resolve in 4 to 5 days after birth. The trauma of the birth process does not cause inflammation of the newborn’s breast tissue. Newborns do not have breast malignancy. This reply by the nurse would cause the mother to have undue anxiety. Breast tissue does not hypertrophy in the fetus or newborns.
24. D. The first 15 minutes to 1 hour after birth is the first period of reactivity involving respiratory and circulatory adaptation to extrauterine life. The data given reflect the normal changes during this time period. The infant’s assessment data reflect normal adaptation. Thus, the physician does not need to be notified and oxygen is not needed. The data do not indicate the presence of choking, gagging or coughing, which are signs of excessive secretions. Suctioning is not necessary.
25. B. Application of 70% isopropyl alcohol to the cord minimizes microorganisms (germicidal) and promotes drying. The cord should be kept dry until it falls off and the stump has healed. Antibiotic ointment should only be used to treat an infection, not as a prophylaxis. Infants should not be submerged in a tub of water until the cord falls off and the stump has completely healed.
26. B. To determine the amount of formula needed, do the following mathematical calculation. 3 kg x 120 cal/kg per day = 360 calories/day feeding q 4 hours = 6 feedings per day = 60 calories per feeding: 60 calories per feeding; 60 calories per feeding with formula 20 cal/oz  = 3 ounces per feeding. Based on the calculation. 2, 4 or 6 ounces are incorrect.
27. A.  Intrauterine anoxia may cause relaxation of the anal sphincter and emptying of meconium into the amniotic fluid. At birth some of the meconium fluid may be aspirated, causing mechanical obstruction or chemical pneumonitis. The infant is not at increased risk for gastrointestinal problems. Even though the skin is stained with meconium, it is noninfectious (sterile) and nonirritating. The postterm meconium-stained infant is not at additional risk for bowel or urinary problems.
28. C.  The nurse should use a nonelastic, flexible, paper measuring tape, placing the zero point on the superior border of the symphysis pubis and stretching the tape across the abdomen at the midline to the top of the fundus. The xiphoid and umbilicus are not appropriate landmarks to use when measuring the height of the fundus (McDonald’s measurement).
29. B. Women hospitalized with severe preeclampsia need decreased CNS stimulation to prevent a seizure. Seizure precautions provide environmental safety should a seizure occur. Because of edema, daily weight is important but not the priority. Preclampsia causes vasospasm and therefore can reduce utero-placental perfusion. The client should be placed on her left side to maximize blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and promote diuresis. Interventions to reduce stress and anxiety are very important to facilitate coping and a sense of control, but seizure precautions are the priority.
30. C. Cessation of the lochial discharge signifies healing of the endometrium. Risk of hemorrhage and infection are minimal 3 weeks after a normal vaginal delivery. Telling the client anytime is inappropriate because this response does not provide the client with the specific information she is requesting. Choice of a contraceptive method is important, but not the specific criteria for safe resumption of sexual activity. Culturally, the 6-weeks’ examination has been used as the time frame for resuming sexual activity, but it may be resumed earlier.
31. C. The middle third of the vastus lateralis is the preferred injection site for vitamin K administration because it is free of blood vessels and nerves and is large enough to absorb the medication. The deltoid muscle of a newborn is not large enough for a newborn IM injection. Injections into this muscle in a small child might cause damage to the radial nerve. The anterior femoris muscle is the next safest muscle to use in a newborn but is not the safest. Because of the proximity of the sciatic nerve, the gluteus maximus muscle should not be until the child has been walking 2 years.
32. D. Bartholin’s glands are the glands on either side of the vaginal orifice. The clitoris is female erectile tissue found in the perineal area above the urethra. The parotid glands are open into the mouth. Skene’s glands open into the posterior wall of the female urinary meatus.
33. D. The fetal gonad must secrete estrogen for the embryo to differentiate as a female. An increase in maternal estrogen secretion does not effect differentiation of the embryo, and maternal estrogen secretion occurs in every pregnancy. Maternal androgen secretion remains the same as before pregnancy and does not effect differentiation. Secretion of androgen by the fetal gonad would produce a male fetus.
34. A. Using bicarbonate would increase the amount of sodium ingested, which can cause complications. Eating low-sodium crackers would be appropriate. Since liquids can increase nausea avoiding them in the morning hours when nausea is usually the strongest is appropriate. Eating six small meals a day would keep the stomach full, which often decrease nausea.
35. B. Ballottement indicates passive movement of the unengaged fetus. Ballottement is not a contraction. Fetal kicking felt by the client represents quickening. Enlargement and softening of the uterus is known as Piskacek’s sign.
36. B. Chadwick’s sign refers to the purple-blue tinge of the cervix. Braxton Hicks contractions are painless contractions beginning around the 4^th month. Goodell’s sign indicates softening of the cervix. Flexibility of the uterus against the cervix is known as McDonald’s sign.
37. C. Breathing techniques can raise the pain threshold and reduce the perception of pain. They also promote relaxation. Breathing techniques do not eliminate pain, but they can reduce it. Positioning, not breathing, increases uteroplacental perfusion.
38. A. The client’s labor is hypotonic. The nurse should call the physical and obtain an order for an infusion of oxytocin, which will assist the uterus to contact more forcefully in an attempt to dilate the cervix. Administering light sedative would be done for hypertonic uterine contractions. Preparing for cesarean section is unnecessary at this time. Oxytocin would increase the uterine contractions and hopefully progress labor before a cesarean would be necessary. It is too early to anticipate client pushing with contractions.
39. D. The signs indicate placenta previa and vaginal exam to determine cervical dilation would not be done because it could cause hemorrhage. Assessing maternal vital signs can help determine maternal physiologic status. Fetal heart rate is important to assess fetal well-being and should be done. Monitoring the contractions will help evaluate the progress of labor.
40. D. A complete placenta previa occurs when the placenta covers the opening of the uterus, thus blocking the passageway for the baby. This response explains what a complete previa is and the reason the baby cannot come out except by cesarean delivery. Telling the client to ask the physician is a poor response and would increase the patient’s anxiety. Although a cesarean would help to prevent hemorrhage, the statement does not explain why the hemorrhage could occur. With a complete previa, the placenta is covering all the cervix, not just most of it.
41. B. With a face presentation, the head is completely extended. With a vertex presentation, the head is completely or partially flexed. With a brow (forehead) presentation, the head would be partially extended.
42. D. With this presentation, the fetal upper torso and back face the left upper maternal abdominal wall. The fetal heart rate would be most audible above the maternal umbilicus and to the left of the middle. The other positions would be incorrect.
43. C. The greenish tint is due to the presence of meconium. Lanugo is the soft, downy hair on the shoulders and back of the fetus. Hydramnios represents excessive amniotic fluid. Vernix is the white, cheesy substance covering the fetus.
44. D. In a breech position, because of the space between the presenting part and the cervix, prolapse of the umbilical cord is common. Quickening is the woman’s first perception of fetal movement. Ophthalmia neonatorum usually results from maternal gonorrhea and is conjunctivitis. Pica refers to the oral intake of nonfood substances.
45. A. Dizygotic (fraternal) twins involve two ova fertilized by separate sperm. Monozygotic (identical) twins involve a common placenta, same genotype, and common chorion.
46. C. The zygote is the single cell that reproduces itself after conception. The chromosome is the material that makes up the cell and is gained from each parent. Blastocyst and trophoblast are later terms for the embryo after zygote.
47. D. Prepared childbirth was the direct result of the 1950’s challenging of the routine use of analgesic and anesthetics during childbirth. The LDRP was a much later concept and was not a direct result of the challenging of routine use of analgesics and anesthetics during childbirth. Roles for  nurse midwives and clinical nurse specialists did not develop from this challenge.
48. C. The ischial spines are located in the mid-pelvic region and could be narrowed due to the previous pelvic injury. The symphysis pubis, sacral promontory, and pubic arch are not part of the mid-pelvis.
49. B. Variations in the length of the menstrual cycle are due to variations in the proliferative phase. The menstrual, secretory and ischemic phases do not contribute to this variation.
50. B. Testosterone is produced by the Leyding cells in the seminiferous tubules. Follicle-stimulating hormone and leuteinzing hormone are released by the anterior pituitary gland. The hypothalamus is responsible for releasing gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Maternal and Child Health Practice Test Part 3

1. While performing physical assessment of a 12 month-old, the nurse notes that the infant’s anterior fontanelle is still slightly open. Which of the following is the nurse’s most appropriate action?
1. Notify the physician immediately because there is a problem.
2. Perform an intensive neurologic examination.
3. Perform an intensive developmental examination.
4. Do nothing because this is a normal finding for the age.
2. When teaching a mother about introducing solid foods to her child, which of the following indicates the earliest age at which this should be done?
1. 1 month
2. 2 months
3. 3 months
4. 4 months
3. The infant of a substance-abusing mother is at risk for developing a sense of which of the following?
1. Mistrust
2. Shame
3. Guilt
4. Inferiority
4. Which of the following toys should the nurse recommend for a 5-month-old?
1. A big red balloon
2. A teddy bear with button eyes
3. A push-pull wooden truck
4. A colorful busy box
5. The mother of a 2-month-old is concerned that she may be spoiling her baby by picking her up when she cries. Which of the following would be the nurse’s best response?
1. “ Let her cry for a while before picking her up, so you don’t spoil her”
2. “Babies need to be held and cuddled; you won’t spoil her this way”
3. “Crying at this age means the baby is hungry; give her a bottle”
4. “If you leave her alone she will learn how to cry herself to sleep”
6. When assessing an 18-month-old, the nurse notes a characteristic protruding abdomen. Which of the following would explain the rationale for this finding?
1. Increased food intake owing to age
2. Underdeveloped abdominal muscles
3. Bowlegged posture
4. Linear growth curve
7. If parents keep a toddler dependent in areas where he is capable of using skills, the toddle will develop a sense of which of the following?
1. Mistrust
2. Shame
3. Guilt
4. Inferiority
8. Which of the following is an appropriate toy for an 18-month-old?
1. Multiple-piece puzzle
2. Miniature cars
3. Finger paints
4. Comic book
9. When teaching parents about the child’s readiness for toilet training, which of the following signs should the nurse instruct them to watch for in the toddler?
1. Demonstrates dryness for 4 hours
2. Demonstrates ability to sit and walk
3. Has a new sibling for stimulation
4. Verbalizes desire to go to the bathroom
10. When teaching parents about typical toddler eating patterns, which of the following should be included?
1. Food “jags”
2. Preference to eat alone
3. Consistent table manners
4. Increase in appetite
11. Which of the following suggestions should the nurse offer the parents of a 4-year-old boy who resists going to bed at night?
1. “Allow him to fall asleep in your room, then move him to his own bed.”
2. “Tell him that you will lock him in his room if he gets out of bed one more time.”
3. “Encourage active play at bedtime to tire him out so he will fall asleep faster.”
4. “Read him a story and allow him to play quietly in his bed until he falls asleep.”
12. When providing therapeutic play, which of the following toys would best promote imaginative play in a 4-year-old?
1. Large blocks
2. Dress-up clothes
3. Wooden puzzle
4. Big wheels
13. Which of the following activities, when voiced by the parents following a teaching session about the characteristics of school-age cognitive development would indicate the need for additional teaching?
1. Collecting baseball cards and marbles
2. Ordering dolls according to size
3. Considering simple problem-solving options
4. Developing plans for the future
14. A hospitalized schoolager states: “I’m not afraid of this place, I’m not afraid of anything.” This statement is most likely an example of which of the following?
1. Regression
2. Repression
3. Reaction formation
4. Rationalization
15. After teaching a group of parents about accident prevention for schoolagers, which of the following statements by the group would indicate the need for more teaching?
1. “Schoolagers are more active and adventurous than are younger children.”
2. “Schoolagers are more susceptible to home hazards than are younger children.”
3. “Schoolagers are unable to understand potential dangers around them.”
4. “Schoolargers are less subject to parental control than are younger children.”
16. Which of the following skills is the most significant one learned during the schoolage period?
1. Collecting
2. Ordering
3. Reading
4. Sorting
17. A child age 7 was unable to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at the recommended scheduled time. When would the nurse expect to administer MMR vaccine?
1. In a month from now
2. In a year from now
3. At age 10
4. At age 13
18. The adolescent’s inability to develop a sense of who he is and what he can become results in a sense of which of the following?
1. Shame
2. Guilt
3. Inferiority
4. Role diffusion
19. Which of the following would be most appropriate for a nurse to use when describing menarche to a 13-year-old?
1. A female’s first menstruation or menstrual “periods”
2. The first year of menstruation or “period”
3. The entire menstrual cycle or from one “period” to another
4. The onset of uterine maturation or peak growth
20. A 14-year-old boy has acne and according to his parents, dominates the bathroom by using the mirror all the time. Which of the following remarks by the nurse would be least helpful in talking to the boy and his parents?
1. “This is probably the only concern he has about his body. So don’t worry about it or the time he spends on it.”
2. “Teenagers are anxious about how their peers perceive them. So they spend a lot of time grooming.”
3. “A teen may develop a poor self-image when experiencing acne. Do you feel this way sometimes?”
4. “You appear to be keeping your face well washed. Would you feel comfortable discussing your cleansing method?”
21. Which of the following should the nurse suspect when noting that a 3-year-old is engaging in explicit sexual behavior during doll play?
1. The child is exhibiting normal pre-school curiosity
2. The child is acting out personal experiences
3. The child does not know how to play with dolls
4. The child is probably developmentally delayed.
22. Which of the following statements by the parents of a child with school phobia would indicate the need for further teaching?
1. “We’ll keep him at home until phobia subsides.”
2. “We’ll work with his teachers and counselors at school.”
3. “We’ll try to encourage him to talk about his problem.”
4. “We’ll discuss possible solutions with him and his counselor.”
23. When developing a teaching plan for a group of high school students about teenage pregnancy, the nurse would keep in mind which of the following?
1. The incidence of teenage pregnancies is increasing.
2. Most teenage pregnancies are planned.
3. Denial of the pregnancy is common early on.
4. The risk for complications during pregnancy is rare.
24. When assessing a child with a cleft palate, the nurse is aware that the child is at risk for more frequent episodes of otitis media due to which of the following?
1. Lowered resistance from malnutrition
2. Ineffective functioning of the Eustachian tubes
3. Plugging of the Eustachian tubes with food particles
4. Associated congenital defects of the middle ear.
25. While performing a neurodevelopmental assessment on a 3-month-old infant, which of the following characteristics would be expected?
1. A strong Moro reflex
2. A strong parachute reflex
3. Rolling from front to back
4. Lifting of head and chest when prone
26. By the end of which of the following would the nurse most commonly expect a child’s birth weight to triple?
1. 4 months
2. 7 months
3. 9 months
4. 12 months
27. Which of the following best describes parallel play between two toddlers?
1. Sharing crayons to color separate pictures
2. Playing a board game with a nurse
3. Sitting near each other while playing with separate dolls
4. Sharing their dolls with two different nurses
28. Which of the following would the nurse identify as the initial priority for a child with acute lymphocytic leukemia?
1. Instituting infection control precautions
2. Encouraging adequate intake of iron-rich foods
3. Assisting with coping with chronic illness
4. Administering medications via IM injections
29. Which of the following information, when voiced by the mother, would indicate to the nurse that she understands home care instructions following the administration of a diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis injection?
1. Measures to reduce fever
2. Need for dietary restrictions
3. Reasons for subsequent rash
4. Measures to control subsequent diarrhea
30. Which of the following actions by a community health nurse is most appropriate when noting multiple bruises and burns on the posterior trunk of an 18-month-old child during a home visit?
1. Report the child’s condition to Protective Services immediately.
2. Schedule a follow-up visit to check for more bruises.
3. Notify the child’s physician immediately.
4. Don nothing because this is a normal finding in a toddler.
31. Which of the following is being used when the mother of a hospitalized child calls the student nurse and states, “You idiot, you have no idea how to care for my sick child”?
1. Displacement
2. Projection
3. Repression
4. Psychosis
32. Which of the following should the nurse expect to note as a frequent complication for a child with congenital heart disease?
1. Susceptibility to respiratory infection
2. Bleeding tendencies
3. Frequent vomiting and diarrhea
4. Seizure disorder
33. Which of the following would the nurse do first for a 3-year-old boy who arrives in the emergency room with a temperature of 105 degrees, inspiratory stridor, and restlessness, who is learning forward and drooling?
1. Auscultate his lungs and place him in a mist tent.
2. Have him lie down and rest after encouraging fluids.
3. Examine his throat and perform a throat culture
4. Notify the physician immediately and prepare for intubation.
34. Which of the following would the nurse need to keep in mind as a predisposing factor when formulating a teaching plan for child with a urinary tract infection?
1. A shorter urethra in females
2. Frequent emptying of the bladder
3. Increased fluid intake
4. Ingestion of acidic juices
35. Which of the following should the nurse do first for a 15-year-old boy with a full leg cast who is screaming in unrelenting pain and exhibiting right foot pallor signifying compartment syndrome?
1. Medicate him with acetaminophen.
2. Notify the physician immediately
3. Release the traction
4. Monitor him every 5 minutes
36. At which of the following ages would the nurse expect to administer the varicella zoster vaccine to child?
1. At birth
2. 2 months
3. 6 months
4. 12 months
37. When discussing normal infant growth and development with parents, which of the following toys would the nurse suggest as most appropriate for an 8-month-old?
1. Push-pull toys
2. Rattle
3. Large blocks
4. Mobile
38. Which of the following aspects of psychosocial development is necessary for the nurse to keep in mind when providing care for the preschool child?
1. The child can use complex reasoning to think out situations.
2. Fear of body mutilation is a common preschool fear
3. The child engages in competitive types of play
4. Immediate gratification is necessary to develop initiative.
39. Which of the following is characteristic of a preschooler with mid mental retardation?
1. Slow to feed self
2. Lack of speech
3. Marked motor delays
4. Gait disability
40. Which of the following assessment findings would lead the nurse to suspect Down syndrome in an infant?
1. Small tongue
2. Transverse palmar crease
3. Large nose
4. Restricted joint movement
41. While assessing a newborn with cleft lip, the nurse would be alert that which of the following will most likely be compromised?
1. Sucking ability
2. Respiratory status
3. Locomotion
4. GI function
42. When providing postoperative care for the child with a cleft palate, the nurse should position the child in which of the following positions?
1. Supine
2. Prone
3. In an infant seat
4. On the side
43. While assessing a child with pyloric stenosis, the nurse is likely to note which of the following?
1. Regurgitation
2. Steatorrhea
3. Projectile vomiting
4. “Currant jelly” stools
44. Which of the following nursing diagnoses would be inappropriate for the infant with gastroesophageal reflux (GER)?
1. Fluid volume deficit
2. Risk for aspiration
3. Altered nutrition: less than body requirements
4. Altered oral mucous membranes
45. Which of the following parameters would the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of thickened feedings for an infant with gastroesophageal reflux (GER)?
1. Vomiting
2. Stools
3. Uterine
4. Weight
46. Discharge teaching for a child with celiac disease would include instructions about avoiding which of the following?
1. Rice
2. Milk
3. Wheat
4. Chicken
47. Which of the following would the nurse expect to assess in a child with celiac disease having a celiac crisis secondary to an upper respiratory infection?
1. Respiratory distress
2. Lethargy
3. Watery diarrhea
4. Weight gain
48. Which of the following should the nurse do first after noting that a child with Hirschsprung disease has a fever and watery explosive diarrhea?
1. Notify the physician immediately
2. Administer antidiarrheal medications
3. Monitor child ever 30 minutes
4. Nothing, this is characteristic of Hirschsprung disease
49. A newborn’s failure to pass meconium within the first 24 hours after birth may indicate which of the following?
1. Hirschsprung disease
2. Celiac disease
3. Intussusception
4. Abdominal wall defect
50. When assessing a child for possible intussusception, which of the following would be least likely to provide valuable information?
1. Stool inspection
2. Pain pattern
3. Family history
4. Abdominal palpation

ANSWER

1. D. The anterior fontanelle typically closes anywhere between 12 to 18 months of age. Thus, assessing the anterior fontanelle as still being slightly open is a normal finding requiring no further action. Because it is normal finding for this age, notifying he physician or performing additional examinations are inappropriate.

2. D. Solid foods are not recommended before age 4 to 6 months because of the sucking reflex and the immaturity of the gastrointestinal tract and immune system. Therefore, the earliest age at which to introduce foods is 4 months. Any time earlier would be inappropriate.

3. A. According to Erikson, infants need to have their needs met consistently and effectively to develop a sense of trust. An infant whose needs are consistently unmet or who experiences significant delays in having them met, such as in the case of the infant of a substance-abusing mother, will develop a sense of uncertainty, leading to mistrust of caregivers and the environment. Toddlers develop a sense of shame when their autonomy needs are not met consistently. Preschoolers develop a sense of guilt when their sense of initiative is thwarted. Schoolagers develop a sense of inferiority when they do not develop a sense of industry.

4. D. A busy box facilitates the fine motor development that occurs between 4 and 6 months. Balloons are contraindicated because small children may aspirate balloons. Because the button eyes of a teddy bear may detach and be aspirated, this toy is unsafe for children younger than 3 years. A 5-month-old is too young to use a push-pull toy.

5. B. Infants need to have their security needs met by being held and cuddled. At 2 months of age, they are unable to make the connection between crying and attention. This association does not occur until late infancy or early toddlerhood. Letting the infant cry for a time before picking up the infant or leaving the infant alone to cry herself to sleep interferes with meeting the infant’s need for security at this very young age. Infants cry for many reasons. Assuming that the child s hungry may cause overfeeding problems such as obesity.

6. B. Underdeveloped abdominal musculature gives the toddler a characteristically protruding abdomen. During toddlerhood, food intake decreases, not increases. Toddlers are characteristically bowlegged because the leg muscles must bear the weight of the relatively large trunk. Toddler growth patterns occur in a steplike, not linear pattern.

7. B. According to Erikson, toddlers experience a sense of shame when they are not allowed to develop appropriate independence and autonomy. Infants develop mistrust when their needs are not consistently gratified. Preschoolers develop guilt when their initiative needs are not met while schoolagers develop a sense of inferiority when their industry needs are not met.

8. C. Young toddlers are still sensorimotor learners and they enjoy the experience of feeling different textures. Thus, finger paints would be an appropriate toy choice. Multiple-piece toys, such as puzzle, are too difficult to manipulate and may be hazardous if the pieces are small enough to be aspirated. Miniature cars also have a high potential for aspiration. Comic books are on too high a level for toddlers. Although they may enjoy looking at some of the pictures, toddlers are more likely to rip a comic book apart.

9. D. The child must be able to sate the need to go to the bathroom to initiate toilet training. Usually, a child needs to be dry for only 2 hours, not 4 hours. The child also must be able to sit, walk, and squat. A new sibling would most likely hinder toilet training.

10. A. Toddlers become picky eaters, experiencing food jags and eating large amounts one day and very little the next. A toddler’s food gags express a preference for the ritualism of eating one type of food for several days at a time. Toddlers typically enjoy socialization and limiting others at meal time. Toddlers prefer to feed themselves and thus are too young to have table manners. A toddler’s appetite and need for calories, protein, and fluid decrease due to the dramatic slowing of growth rate.

11. D. Preschoolers commonly have fears of the dark, being left alone especially at bedtime, and ghosts, which may affect the child’s going to bed at night. Quiet play and time with parents is a positive bedtime routine that provides security and also readies the child for sleep. The child should sleep in his own bed. Telling the child about locking him in his room will viewed by the child as a threat. Additionally, a locked door is frightening and potentially hazardous. Vigorous activity at bedtime stirs up the child and makes more difficult to fall asleep.

12. B. Dress-up clothes enhance imaginative play and imagination, allowing preschoolers to engage in rich fantasy play. Building blocks and wooden puzzles are appropriate for encouraging fine motor development. Big wheels and tricycles encourage gross motor development.

13. D. The school-aged child is in the stage of concrete operations, marked by inductive reasoning, logical operations, and reversible concrete thought. The ability to consider the future requires formal thought operations, which are not developed until adolescence. Collecting baseball cards and marbles, ordering dolls by size, and simple problem-solving options are examples of the concrete operational thinking of the schoolager.

14. C. Reaction formation is the schoolager’s typical defensive response when hospitalized. In reaction formation, expression of unacceptable thoughts or behaviors is prevented (or overridden) by the exaggerated expression of opposite thoughts or types of behaviors. Regression is seen in toddlers and preshcoolers when they retreat or return to an earlier level of development. Repression refers to the involuntary blocking of unpleasant feelings and experiences from one’s awareness. Rationalization is the attempt to make excuses to justify unacceptable feelings or behaviors.

15. C. The schoolager’s cognitive level is sufficiently developed to enable good understanding of and adherence to rules. Thus, schoolagers should be able to understand the potential dangers around them. With growth comes greater freedom and children become more adventurous and daring. The school-aged child is also still prone to accidents and home hazards, especially because of increased motor abilities and independence. Plus the home hazards differ from other age groups. These hazards, which are potentially lethal but tempting, may include firearms, alcohol, and medications. School-age children begin to internalize their own controls and need less outside direction. Plus the child is away from home more often. Some parental or caregiver assistance is still needed to answer questions and provide guidance for decisions and responsibilities.

16. C. The most significant skill learned during the school-age period is reading. During this time the child develops formal adult articulation patterns and learns that words can be arranged in structure. Collective, ordering, and sorting, although important, are not most significant skills learned.

17. C. Based on the recommendations of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics, the MMR vaccine should be given at the age of 10 if the child did not receive it between the ages of 4 to 6 years as recommended. Immunization for diphtheria and tetanus is required at age 13.

18. D. According to Erikson, role diffusion develops when the adolescent does not develop a sense of identity and a sense or where he fits in. Toddlers develop a sense of shame when they do not achieve autonomy. Preschoolers develop a sense of guilt when they do not develop a sense of initiative. School-age children develop a sense of inferiority when they do not develop a sense of industry.

19. A. Menarche refers to the onset of the first menstruation or menstrual period and refers only to the first cycle. Uterine growth and broadening of the pelvic girdle occurs before menarche.

20. A. Stating that this is probably the only concern the adolescent has and telling the parents not to worry about it or the time her spends on it shuts off further investigation and is likely to make the adolescent and his parents feel defensive. The statement about peer acceptance and time spent in front of the mirror for the development of self image provides information about the adolescent’s needs to the parents and may help to gain trust with the adolescent. Asking the adolescent how he feels about the acne will encourage the adolescent to share his feelings. Discussing the cleansing method shows interest and concern for the adolescent and also can help to identify any patient-teaching needs for the adolescent regarding cleansing.

21. B. Preschoolers should be developmentally incapable of demonstrating explicit sexual behavior. If a child does so, the child has been exposed to such behavior, and sexual abuse should be suspected. Explicit sexual behavior during doll play is not a characteristic of preschool development nor symptomatic of developmental delay. Whether or nor the child knows how to play with dolls is irrelevant.

22. A. The parents need more teaching if they state that they will keep the child home until the phobia subsides. Doing so reinforces the child’s feelings of worthlessness and dependency. The child should attend school even during resolution of the problem. Allowing the child to verbalize helps the child to ventilate feelings and may help to uncover causes and solutions. Collaboration with the teachers and counselors at school may lead to uncovering the cause of the phobia and to the development of solutions. The child should participate and play an active role in developing possible solutions.

23. C. The adolescent who becomes pregnant typically denies the pregnancy early on. Early recognition by a parent or health care provider may be crucial to timely initiation of prenatal care. The incidence of adolescent pregnancy has declined since 1991, yet morbidity remains high. Most teenage pregnancies are unplanned and occur out of wedlock. The pregnant adolescent is at high risk for physical complications including premature labor and low-birth-weight infants, high neonatal mortality, iron deficiency anemia, prolonged labor, and fetopelvic disproportion as well as numerous psychological crises.

24. B. Because of the structural defect, children with cleft palate may have ineffective functioning of their Eustachian tubes creating frequent bouts of otitis media. Most children with cleft palate remain well-nourished and maintain adequate nutrition through the use of proper feeding techniques. Food particles do not pass through the cleft and into the Eustachian tubes. There is no association between cleft palate and congenial ear deformities.

25. D. A 3-month-old infant should be able to lift the head and chest when prone. The Moro reflex typically diminishes or subsides by 3 months. The parachute reflex appears at 9 months. Rolling from front to back usually is accomplished at about 5 months.

26. D. A child’s birth weight usually triples by 12 months and doubles by 4 months. No specific birth weight parameters are established for 7 or 9 months.

27. C. Toddlers engaging in parallel play will play near each other, but not with each other. Thus, when two toddlers sit near each other but play with separate dolls, they are exhibiting parallel play. Sharing crayons, playing a board game with a nurse, or sharing dolls with two different nurses are all examples of cooperative play.

28. A. Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) causes leukopenia, resulting in immunosuppression and increasing the risk of infection, a leading cause of death in children with ALL. Therefore, the initial priority nursing intervention would be to institute infection control precautions to decrease the risk of infection. Iron-rich foods help with anemia, but dietary iron is not an initial intervention. The prognosis of ALL usually is good. However, later on, the nurse may need to assist the child and family with coping since death and dying may still be an issue in need of discussion. Injections should be discouraged, owing to increased risk from bleeding due to thrombocytopenia.

29. A. The pertusis component may result in fever and the tetanus component may result in injection soreness. Therefore, the mother’s verbalization of information about measures to reduce fever indicates understanding. No dietary restrictions are necessary after this injection is given. A subsequent rash is more likely to be seen 5 to 10 days after receiving the MMR vaccine, not the diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus vaccine. Diarrhea is not associated with this vaccine.

30. A. Multiple bruises and burns on a toddler are signs child abuse. Therefore, the nurse is responsible for reporting the case to Protective Services immediately to protect the child from further harm. Scheduling a follow-up visit is inappropriate because additional harm may come to the child if the nurse waits for further assessment data. Although the nurse should notify the physician, the goal is to initiate measures to protect the child’s safety. Notifying the physician immediately does not initiate the removal of the child from harm nor does it absolve the nurse from responsibility. Multiple bruises and burns are not normal toddler injuries.

31. B. The mother is using projection, the defense mechanism used when a person attributes his or her own undesirable traits to another. Displacement is the transfer of emotion onto an unrelated object, such as when the mother would kick a chair or bang the door shut. Repression is the submerging of painful ideas into the unconscious. Psychosis is a state of being out of touch with reality.

32. A. Children with congenital heart disease are more prone to respiratory infections. Bleeding tendencies, frequent vomiting, and diarrhea and seizure disorders are not associated with congenital heart disease.

33. D. The child is exhibiting classic signs of epiglottitis, always a pediatric emergency. The physician must be notified immediately and the nurse must be prepared for an emergency intubation or tracheostomy. Further assessment with auscultating lungs and placing the child in a mist tent wastes valuable time. The situation is a possible life-threatening emergency. Having the child lie down would cause additional distress and may result in respiratory arrest. Throat examination may result in laryngospasm that could be fatal.

34. A. In females, the urethra is shorter than in males. This decreases the distance for organisms to travel, thereby increasing the chance of the child developing a urinary tract infection. Frequent emptying of the bladder would help to decrease urinary tract infections by avoiding sphincter stress. Increased fluid intake enables the bladder to be cleared more frequently, thus helping to prevent urinary tract infections. The intake of acidic juices helps to keep the urine pH acidic and thus decrease the chance of flora development.

35. B. Compartment syndrome is an emergent situation and the physician needs to be notified immediately so that interventions can be initiated to relieve the increasing pressure and restore circulation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will be ineffective since the pain is related to the increasing pressure and tissue ischemia. The cast, not traction, is being used in this situation for immobilization, so releasing the traction would be inappropriate. In this situation, specific action not continued monitoring is indicated.

36. D. The varicella zoster vaccine (VZV) is a live vaccine given after age 12 months. The first dose of hepatitis B vaccine is given at birth to 2 months, then at 1 to 4 months, and then again at 6 to 18 months. DtaP is routinely given at 2, 4, 6, and 15 to 18 months and a booster at 4 to 6 years.

37. C. Because the 8-month-old is refining his gross motor skills, being able to sit unsupported and also improving his fine motor skills, probably capable of making hand-to-hand transfers, large blocks would be the most appropriate toy selection. Push-pull toys would be more appropriate for the 10 to 12-month-old as he or she begins to cruise the environment. Rattles and mobiles are more appropriate for infants in the 1 to 3 month age range. Mobiles pose a danger to older infants because of possible strangulation.

38. B. During the preschool period, the child has mastered a sense of autonomy and goes on to master a sense of initiative. During this period, the child commonly experiences more fears than at any other time. One common fear is fear of the body mutilation, especially associated with painful experiences. The preschool child uses simple, not complex, reasoning, engages in associative, not competitive, play (interactive and cooperative play with sharing), and is able to tolerate longer periods of delayed gratification.

39. A. Mild mental retardation refers to development disability involving an IQ 50 to 70. Typically, the child is not noted as being retarded, but exhibits slowness in performing tasks, such as self-feeding, walking, and taking. Little or no speech, marked motor delays, and gait disabilities would be seen in more severe forms mental retardation.

40. B. Down syndrome is characterized by the following a transverse palmar crease (simian crease), separated sagittal suture, oblique palpebral fissures, small nose, depressed nasal bridge, high-arched palate, excess and lax skin, wide spacing and plantar crease between the second and big toes, hyperextensible and lax joints, large protruding tongue, and muscle weakness.

41. A. Because of the defect, the child will be unable to from the mouth adequately around nipple, thereby requiring special devices to allow for feeding and sucking gratification. Respiratory status may be compromised if the child is fed improperly or during postoperative period, Locomotion would be a problem for the older infant because of the use of restraints. GI functioning is not compromised in the child with a cleft lip.

42. B. Postoperatively children with cleft palate should be placed on their abdomens to facilitate drainage. If the child is placed in the supine position, he or she may aspirate. Using an infant seat does not facilitate drainage. Side-lying does not facilitate drainage as well as the prone position.

43. C. Projectile vomiting is a key symptom of pyloric stenosis. Regurgitation is seen more commonly with GER. Steatorrhea occurs in malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease. “Currant jelly” stools are characteristic of intussusception.

44. D. GER is the backflow of gastric contents into the esophagus resulting from relaxation or incompetence of the lower esophageal (cardiac) sphincter. No alteration in the oral mucous membranes occurs with this disorder. Fluid volume deficit, risk for aspiration, and altered nutrition are appropriate nursing diagnoses.

45. A. Thickened feedings are used with GER to stop the vomiting. Therefore, the nurse would monitor the child’s vomiting to evaluate the effectiveness of using the thickened feedings. No relationship exists between feedings and characteristics of stools and uterine. If feedings are ineffective, this should be noted before there is any change in the child’s weight.

46. C. Children with celiac disease cannot tolerate or digest gluten. Therefore, because of its gluten content, wheat and wheat-containing products must be avoided. Rice, milk, and chicken do not contain gluten and need not be avoided.

47. C. Episodes of celiac crises are precipitated by infections, ingestion of gluten, prolonged fasting, or exposure to anticholinergic drugs. Celiac crisis is typically characterized by severe watery diarrhea. Respiratory distress is unlikely in a routine upper respiratory infection. Irritability, rather than lethargy, is more likely. Because of the fluid loss associated with the severe watery diarrhea, the child’s weight is more likely to be decreased.

48. A. For the child with Hirschsprung disease, fever and explosive diarrhea indicate enterocolitis, a life-threatening situation. Therefore, the physician should be notified immediately. Generally, because of the intestinal obstruction and inadequate propulsive intestinal movement, antidiarrheals are not used to treat Hirschsprung disease. The child is acutely ill and requires intervention, with monitoring more frequently than every 30 minutes. Hirschsprung disease typically presents with chronic constipation.

49. A. Failure to pass meconium within the first 24 hours after birth may be an indication of Hirschsprung disease, a congenital anomaly resulting in mechanical obstruction due to inadequate motility in an intestinal segment. Failure to pass meconium is not associated with celiac disease, intussusception, or abdominal wall defect.

50. C. Because intussusception is not believed to have a familial tendency, obtaining a family history would provide the least amount of information. Stool inspection, pain pattern, and abdominal palpation would reveal possible indicators of intussusception. Current, jelly-like stools containing blood and mucus are an indication of intussusception. Acute, episodic abdominal pain is characteristics of intussusception. A sausage-shaped mass may be palpated in the right upper quadrant.