A newborn presents with delayed meconium passage, abdominal distension, and bilious vomiting. What is the most concerning diagnosis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Hirschsprung disease is caused by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, leading to functional obstruction, delayed meconium passage, and bilious vomiting. Diagnosis is confirmed with a rectal biopsy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Perfusion abnormalities are not part of the traditional SIRS criteria, which focus on temperature, WBC count, respiratory rate, and heart rate.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hypotension is a late sign of shock, while early signs include tachycardia and vasoconstriction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Male gender, rather than female, is a known risk factor for asthma morbidity and mortality, particularly in childhood.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The anion gap is calculated as (Na⁺ - [Cl⁻ + HCO₃⁻]) and represents unmeasured anions in plasma. It helps differentiate metabolic acidosis causes, with high values suggesting lactic acidosis or toxin ingestion.