ATI RN
Pediatric Nurse Exam Sample Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 75 -g black female experienced respiratory distress after a preterm delivery at 7 weeks' gestation Possible causes of the respiratory distress include (may choose more than one)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Pneumothorax. When a preterm infant is born, especially at 7 weeks' gestation, their lungs are underdeveloped and fragile, making them susceptible to conditions like pneumothorax, which is the accumulation of air in the pleural space causing lung collapse. This condition can lead to respiratory distress due to compromised lung function. Option B) Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a common condition in preterm infants where the lungs lack surfactant, leading to difficulty in breathing. While RDS is a possible cause of respiratory distress in preterm infants, in this case, the presentation is more indicative of pneumothorax. Option C) Patent ductus arteriosus is a heart condition where a blood vessel fails to close after birth, causing circulation issues. While this can lead to respiratory distress in some cases, it is less likely in this scenario compared to pneumothorax. Option D) Group B streptococcal sepsis is a bacterial infection that can affect newborns, but it typically presents with symptoms like fever, lethargy, poor feeding, and respiratory distress may not be the primary symptom, making it less likely in this case. Educationally, understanding the common complications and conditions in preterm infants is crucial for pediatric nurses to provide prompt and effective care. Knowing the specific signs and symptoms of conditions like pneumothorax can help nurses intervene quickly and improve outcomes for these vulnerable patients.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement about rumination disorder is FALSE?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Rumination disorder is a condition where a person regurgitates and re-chews food, leading to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. The statement "It can resolve spontaneously" (Option D) is FALSE. This is because rumination disorder typically requires intervention, such as behavioral therapy, to address the underlying causes and modify the individual's behavior. Option A is incorrect because rumination disorder can also be seen in children and adults, not just infants. Option B is incorrect as rumination disorder can vary in its course, with some cases being chronic but others improving with appropriate treatment. Option C is incorrect as rumination disorder is a complex condition that is not solely caused by neglect, but can have various contributing factors including psychological, social, or environmental influences. In an educational context, it is crucial for pediatric nurses to have a solid understanding of childhood feeding and eating disorders like rumination disorder. By knowing the accurate information about these disorders, nurses can effectively assess, intervene, and provide holistic care for pediatric patients facing these challenges. It is important to recognize the nuances of each disorder to ensure appropriate care and support for the children and their families.
Question 3 of 5
What is the best explanation for breath-holding spells?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Breath-holding spells in children are a phenomenon characterized by a child involuntarily holding their breath to the point of fainting. The correct answer, A) Manifestation of iron deficiency anemia, is the best explanation for this condition. Iron deficiency anemia can lead to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, which can trigger these spells as a compensatory mechanism to increase oxygen levels. Option B) Type of seizure is incorrect because breath-holding spells are not a form of seizure activity. Option C) Expressed as a brief tonic movement is inaccurate as breath-holding spells involve a child holding their breath, not tonic movements. Option D) Resolve by age 5 is incorrect as breath-holding spells can persist beyond age 5, though they often improve with age. In an educational context, understanding the underlying cause of breath-holding spells is crucial for pediatric nurses. Recognizing that iron deficiency anemia can be a trigger empowers nurses to provide appropriate interventions such as iron supplementation and education on dietary modifications. This knowledge enhances the nurse's ability to support both the child and their family in managing and potentially preventing further episodes of breath-holding spells.
Question 4 of 5
What is the most consistent structural brain finding in autistic spectrum disorders?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Diffuse increase in brain size. In autistic spectrum disorders, one of the most consistent structural brain findings is an abnormal increase in overall brain size, known as macrocephaly. This phenomenon is seen in a significant number of individuals with autism and is thought to be related to abnormal brain development during early childhood. Option B) Focal atrophy is not a common finding in autistic spectrum disorders. Atrophy refers to a decrease in the size or wasting away of brain tissue, which is not typically associated with autism. Option C) White matter changes and Option D) Gray matter degenerative changes are not the most consistent structural brain findings in autistic spectrum disorders. While there may be some variations in white and gray matter in individuals with autism, they are not as consistently observed as the diffuse increase in brain size. In an educational context, understanding the structural brain findings in autistic spectrum disorders is crucial for healthcare professionals working with pediatric patients. This knowledge can help in early identification, diagnosis, and intervention planning for children with autism. Recognizing the common neurobiological features of autism can also aid in developing individualized treatment approaches and support strategies to improve outcomes for these children.
Question 5 of 5
The following medications are truly matched to their major pharmacological groups EXCEPT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is D) fluoxetine tricyclic antidepressants. Fluoxetine belongs to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), not tricyclic antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants include medications like amitriptyline, imipramine, and nortriptyline, which have a different mechanism of action compared to SSRIs like fluoxetine. Option A, methylphenidate as a stimulant, is correct as methylphenidate is commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Option B, atomoxetine as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is also correct as atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD by affecting the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Option C, escitalopram as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is correct as escitalopram is an SSRI commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Understanding the pharmacological groups of medications is crucial for pediatric nurses to safely administer and monitor drug therapy in pediatric patients. It is essential for nurses to be able to differentiate between different drug classes to ensure appropriate treatment and minimize potential adverse effects. Knowledge of pharmacology helps nurses make informed clinical decisions and provide optimal care to pediatric patients.