NCLEX Tip of the Day 2/11

[SkateBetty]

Here they are...

Hirschsprung's diagnosed with rectal biopsy looking for absence of ganglionic cells. Cardinal sign in infants is failure to pass meconium, and later the classic ribbon-like and foul smelling stools.

Intussusception common in kids with CF. Obstruction may cause fecal emesis, currant jelly-like stools (blood and mucus). A barium enema may be used to hydrostatically reduce the telescoping. Resolution is obvious, with onset of bowel movements.

With omphalocele and gastroschisis (herniation of abdominal contents) dress with loose saline dressing covered with plastic wrap, and keep eye on temp. Kid can lose heat quickly.

After a hydrocele repair provide ice bags and scrotal support.

No phenylalanine with a kid positive for PKU (no meat, no dairy, no aspartame).

Second voided urine most accurate when testing for ketones and glucose.

Never give potassium if the patient is oliguric or anuric.

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by massive proteinuria (looks dark and frothy) caused by glomerular damage. Corticosteroids are the mainstay. Generalized edema common.

A positive Western blot in a child

For HIV kids avoid OPV and Varicella vaccinations (live), but give Pneumococcal and influenza. MMR is avoided only if the kid is severely immunocompromised. Parents should wear gloves for care, not kiss kids on the mouth, and not share eating utensils.

Hypotension and vasoconstricting meds may alter the accuracy of o2 sats.

An antacid should be given to a mechanically ventilated patient w/ an ng tube if the ph of the aspirate is

Ambient air (room air) contains 21% oxygen.

The first sign of ARDS is increased respirations. Later comes dyspnea, retractions, air hunger, cyanosis.

Normal PCWP is 8-13. Readings of 18-20 are considered high.

First sign of PE is sudden chest pain, followed by dyspnea and tachypnea.

High potassium is expected with carbon dioxide narcosis (hydrogen floods the cell forcing potassium out). Carbon dioxide narcosis causes increased intracranial pressure.

Pulmonary sarcoidosis leads to right sided heart failure.

An NG tube can be irrigated with cola, and should be taught to family when a client is going home with an NG tube.

That's it for tonight. Happy studying, friends!

[2005grad]

Thank you for your tips. Took me a long time to figure out what PCWP was. Just for other to know it is Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure.

Thank you again,

Faith

[SkateBetty]

Thank you for your tips. Took me a long time to figure out what PCWP was. Just for other to know it is Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure.

Thank you again,

Faith

I'm sorry!!! I post the notes I've written to myself verbatim. Thanks for clarifying. :selfbonk:

[2005grad]

NO problem...STill enjoying your posts.

Faith Rn:nurse:

Taking Boards in march....Second and last time in Jesus Name!!!!!:)