Pediatric Nurse Exam Pediatric Nurse Psychosocial and Mental Health 3

Question 1

A 7-year-old child with ADHD is starting methylphenidate. The nurse should monitor for which common side effect?

Accepted Answer

Decreased appetite and insomnia

Answer

Stimulant medications like methylphenidate commonly cause appetite suppression and sleep disturbances in children.

Question 2

A nurse notices bruising in various stages of healing on a 5-year-old's back and buttocks. The most appropriate first action is:

Accepted Answer

Document findings and report suspected abuse per protocol

Answer

Bruising in unusual locations at multiple healing stages is a red flag for abuse; mandatory reporting is required before confronting caregivers.

Question 3

The nurse is assessing a 2-year-old for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Which finding would be MOST concerning?

Accepted Answer

Lack of pointing to share interest with others by 12 months

Answer

Absent joint attention behaviors such as pointing by 12 months is a key early red flag for autism spectrum disorder.

Question 4

Which therapeutic communication technique is MOST appropriate when a grieving adolescent says, 'I don't want to talk about my dad dying'?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge their statement and offer to be available when they are ready

Answer

Respecting the adolescent's readiness while conveying availability maintains trust and does not force premature disclosure.

Question 5

A nurse is educating parents about oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Which parenting strategy should be emphasized?

Accepted Answer

Consistent, predictable boundaries with positive reinforcement for compliance

Answer

Consistent structure with positive reinforcement is the cornerstone of behavioral management for children with ODD.

Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice Test