Question

A 2-year-old is hospitalized with suspected intussusception. Which finding is associated with intussusception? A. "Currant jelly" stools B. Projectile vomiting C. "Ribbonlike" stools D. Palpable mass over the flank

Short answer

Answer: A. "Currant jelly" stools

Step-by-step solution

Understand intussusception

Intussusception is a condition where a segment of the intestine invaginates into an adjacent segment, causing a bowel obstruction. This can lead to reduced blood flow and tissue damage. It is most commonly seen in infants and young children, and it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms to quickly diagnose and treat this condition.

Analyze the given options

We'll now examine each option to determine whether it is associated with intussusception. A. "Currant jelly" stools: This term describes the appearance of stool that is mixed with blood and mucus. This can be a result of the intestinal lining shedding due to lack of blood supply from the invagination in intussusception. B. Projectile vomiting: This type of vomiting is forceful and is often associated with other gastrointestinal issues like pyloric stenosis, not intussusception. C. "Ribbonlike" stools: Ribbon-like stools are stools that are thin, flat, and long due to a narrowed segment in the colon. This is typically not seen in intussusception. D. Palpable mass over the flank: While it's possible to feel a mass in the abdomen due to intussusception, it is not typically located in the flank area, as intussusception usually involves the ileocecal valve, which is not in the flank region.

Identify the correct answer

Based on our analysis, the correct answer is A. "Currant jelly" stools. These stools are a result of blood and mucus mixing due to the intestinal lining shedding from lack of blood supply to the invaginated region in intussusception.

Key concepts

Pediatric Nursing and Intussusception

In pediatric nursing, understanding the unique health challenges of infants and young children is paramount. One such challenge is intussusception, a serious condition that can lead to bowel obstruction. Pediatric nurses are trained to quickly recognize the signs and symptoms of this ailment to expedite diagnosis and treatment.

When dealing with suspected intussusception in children, nurses are on high alert for symptoms like abdominal pain, swelling, and 'currant jelly' stools—an alarming sign indicative of internal bleeding due to the telescoped segment of the intestine. Early intervention is crucial, and pediatric nursing care includes monitoring for changes in vital signs, pain assessment, and support to the child and their family during this stressful time. Effective communication skills are also essential in educating families about the condition and the importance of follow-up care.

NCLEX-PN Practice Questions

Preparing for the NCLEX-PN as a nurse involves becoming proficient in recognizing symptoms and conditions affecting pediatric patients. Practice questions like the one regarding intussusception play a critical role in readying nursing candidates for real-world scenarios.

A question might detail a child's symptoms and ask the examinee to identify the condition or the symptom most closely associated with a condition like intussusception. Understanding the correct answer, 'currant jelly' stools, demonstrates a solid grasp of pediatric gastrointestinal disorders. In addition to symptom recognition, NCLEX-PN candidates are expected to understand appropriate interventions and communicate effectively with both the medical team and the patient's family.

Intestinal Obstruction Symptoms

Intestinal obstruction, such as that caused by intussusception, presents with a range of symptoms that may include distinctive stool patterns, vomiting, and abdominal pain or distension. The 'currant jelly' stools are a classic symptom, indicating blood and mucus in the stool, often associated with this condition.

Other symptoms may not be as specific but are equally concerning, such as lethargy, a decrease in bowel movements, or a palpable mass in the abdomen. Recognizing these symptoms early is key to preventing serious complications like tissue death and peritonitis. In any case where an obstruction is suspected, immediate medical attention is required to diagnose and treat the condition promptly.