ATI RN
Respiratory Pediatric Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a child with a history of hydrocephalus. Which of the following findings should the nurse be most concerned about?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Irritability and vomiting. As a nurse assessing a child with a history of hydrocephalus, these symptoms are concerning because they can indicate increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is a serious complication associated with hydrocephalus. Irritability can be a sign of neurological distress, and vomiting can be a result of the pressure on the brain affecting the child's gastrointestinal function. Option A) An increase in head circumference is a common sign of hydrocephalus but may not necessarily be a sudden change that warrants immediate concern. Option B) Tightening of the fontanels is also a sign of increased ICP, but it may not always be as noticeable or alarming as irritability and vomiting. Option D) Sunken eyes are not typically associated with hydrocephalus but can be seen in conditions like dehydration. From an educational standpoint, it is crucial for nurses to understand the manifestations of hydrocephalus in pediatric patients. Recognizing signs of increased ICP is vital for early intervention to prevent potential complications like brain damage or herniation. Nurses need to be vigilant in monitoring these patients for any subtle changes that could indicate a deterioration in their condition, as prompt action can be life-saving.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing a 3-year-old child with a history of frequent ear infections. The nurse should expect to see which of the following during a physical exam?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) A red, swollen tympanic membrane. This finding is indicative of acute otitis media, a common condition in children with a history of frequent ear infections. The presence of redness and swelling suggests inflammation and infection within the middle ear. Option B) A clear, intact tympanic membrane is incorrect because in the context of a child with a history of frequent ear infections, it is unlikely to have a normal appearance due to the recurrent inflammation. Option C) A pale tympanic membrane with no fluid behind it is also incorrect as it does not align with the expected assessment findings in a child prone to ear infections. The paleness and absence of fluid are not typical in this situation. Option D) A perforated tympanic membrane is not expected in a child with acute otitis media. Perforation may occur as a complication of chronic or severe infections but is not typically seen during the acute phase. Educationally, understanding the expected physical exam findings in children with a history of recurrent ear infections is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients. Recognizing the signs of acute otitis media, such as a red, swollen tympanic membrane, helps in timely diagnosis and appropriate management, including the initiation of treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a child with an infection and elevated white blood cell count. Which of the following interventions should be implemented first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In pediatric nursing, when assessing a child with an infection and elevated white blood cell count, administering antibiotics as prescribed should be implemented first. This is because prompt initiation of antibiotics is crucial in treating bacterial infections and preventing complications. By starting antibiotics early, the nurse can help stop the progression of the infection and improve the child's outcomes. Providing adequate fluid intake, while important, is not the priority in this situation. Assessing for other signs of systemic infection is also important but should not delay the administration of antibiotics. Monitoring vital signs frequently is essential but does not address the underlying cause of the infection. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the principles of prioritization in pediatric care. This includes recognizing the urgency of interventions based on the child's condition and the potential impact on their health outcomes. By prioritizing the administration of antibiotics in this scenario, nurses demonstrate their ability to provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients with infections.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is providing care to a child with asthma who is using a peak flow meter. The nurse should explain that the green zone on the peak flow meter indicates that
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) The child's asthma is well controlled. In pediatric asthma management, using a peak flow meter helps monitor lung function. The green zone on the peak flow meter indicates that the child's peak flow readings are within 80-100% of their personal best, suggesting good asthma control. Option B) The child needs to increase the use of their rescue inhaler is incorrect because the green zone signifies well-controlled asthma, so increasing rescue inhaler use is not necessary at this time. Option C) The child should seek immediate medical attention is incorrect as the green zone indicates good asthma control, so immediate medical attention is not required. Option D) The child is in the early stages of an asthma attack is incorrect. The green zone reflects good asthma control, not the early stages of an asthma attack. Educationally, understanding peak flow meter zones is crucial for managing pediatric asthma effectively. Teaching parents and children how to interpret these zones empowers them to monitor asthma at home and seek medical help when needed, leading to better asthma control and improved quality of life.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a child with type 1 diabetes. The nurse should educate the child's parents about the importance of monitoring which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Blood glucose levels. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial for a child with type 1 diabetes because it helps in managing their condition effectively. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly. By monitoring blood glucose levels regularly, parents and healthcare providers can adjust insulin doses, plan meals, and make necessary lifestyle changes to keep the child's blood sugar within a safe range. Option B) Body temperature is not directly related to managing type 1 diabetes. While fever can impact blood glucose levels, monitoring body temperature alone is not as critical as monitoring blood glucose levels for a child with diabetes. Option C) Urine output is important in assessing kidney function and hydration status but is not the primary parameter to monitor in a child with type 1 diabetes. Blood glucose levels have a more direct impact on diabetes management. Option D) Heart rate is not typically a parameter that needs to be monitored routinely in the management of type 1 diabetes in children. While exercise and physical activity are important for overall health, monitoring heart rate is not as essential as monitoring blood glucose levels in this context. Educationally, it's important to highlight to parents of children with type 1 diabetes the significance of regular blood glucose monitoring as a cornerstone of managing their child's condition. Teaching them how to perform blood glucose checks, interpret results, and take appropriate actions based on those results is crucial for the child's well-being and quality of life. Regular education and reinforcement of monitoring practices can empower parents to confidently manage their child's diabetes and prevent complications.