The nurse is preparing to administer activated charcoal to a ...

[mrsjacobs44]

The nurse is preparing to administer activated charcoal to a 4-year-old child who accidentally ingested a family member's heart medication. What should the nurse do to reduce the discomfort from this treatment?
 
  A) Insert a nasogastric tube.
  B) Mix the charcoal in milk.
  C) Obtain an order for an indwelling urinary catheter.
  D) Bring an intravenous infusion for fluid replacement.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a preschool child who is receiving palliative care for end-stage cancer. Which of the following would be the focus of age-appropriate interventions for this child?
 
  A) Providing unconditional love and trust
  B) Providing a familiar and consistent routine
  C) Teaching the child that death is not punishment
  D) Providing specific, honest details of death

[Christopher]

Answer to Question 1

A
Feedback:
Activated charcoal absorbs toxic substances that have been swallowed to prevent them from being absorbed by the stomach. The drug is provided as a powder that must be mixed with water, and not milk, and administered orally or through a nasogastric tube. The solution feels gritty and tastes disagreeable, so it may be difficult to swallow. A nasogastric tube will help decrease the child's discomfort when taking the medication. This medication does not require an indwelling urinary catheter or intravenous infusion for fluid replacement.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Spirituality in the preschool years focuses on the concept of right versus wrong. The 3- to 5-year-old may see death as punishment for wrongdoing, and the nurse must correct this misunderstanding. For the infant, unconditional love and trust are of utmost importance. The toddler, 1 to 3 years old, thrives on familiarity and routine; the nurse should maximize the toddler's time with parents, be consistent, provide favorite toys, and ensure physical comfort. The school-age child has a concrete understanding of death. Children who are 5 to 10 years old need specific, honest details (as desired).