Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 84%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A child who has suspected appendicitisA nurse is caring for a child who has suspected appendicitis. Which of the following provider prescriptions should the nurse clarify?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Administer an enema. Administering an enema is contraindicated in suspected appendicitis as it can cause the appendix to rupture due to increased pressure in the abdomen. A ruptured appendix can lead to serious complications such as peritonitis. Therefore, the nurse should clarify this prescription with the provider to avoid potential harm to the child.
Choice A: Medicate the client for pain every 4 hours as needed - This is appropriate for managing pain in a child with suspected appendicitis.
Choice B: Maintain NPO status - Important to prevent further complications in case surgery is needed.
Choice C: Monitor oral temperature every 4 hours - Helpful in assessing for signs of infection.
Overall, administering an enema is the only choice that poses a significant risk to the child in this scenario.
Choice A: Medicate the client for pain every 4 hours as needed - This is appropriate for managing pain in a child with suspected appendicitis.
Choice B: Maintain NPO status - Important to prevent further complications in case surgery is needed.
Choice C: Monitor oral temperature every 4 hours - Helpful in assessing for signs of infection.
Overall, administering an enema is the only choice that poses a significant risk to the child in this scenario.