Chronic cough is defined as a daily cough lasting longer than

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) 4 weeks. In pediatric respiratory assessment, it is crucial to understand the definition of chronic cough to differentiate it from acute conditions. A cough lasting longer than 4 weeks is considered chronic in children. Option A) 2 weeks is too short a duration to be classified as chronic. Acute cough typically lasts up to 3 weeks and may be due to infections or environmental factors. Option B) 3 weeks is also within the timeframe for acute cough and does not meet the criteria for chronic cough. Option D) 6 weeks is longer than the definition of chronic cough, which is important to note to prevent confusion. Understanding these timelines is essential for nurses to accurately assess and manage pediatric respiratory conditions. Educationally, this question helps reinforce the importance of precise definitions in healthcare, especially in pediatric nursing where early detection of chronic conditions like persistent cough can lead to timely interventions and improved outcomes for children. Nurses need to be well-versed in these definitions to provide optimal care and support to pediatric patients and their families.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Very low birth weight. Palivizumab is indicated for some infants under 2 years old with certain risk factors, such as very low birth weight, to provide protection against severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease. Infants with very low birth weight are at higher risk for severe RSV infection due to their underdeveloped immune systems and respiratory systems. Option A) Spasmodic croup is not an indication for palivizumab. Croup is typically caused by viruses other than RSV. Option C) Cyanotic congenital heart disease is a risk factor for severe RSV infection, but it is not the indication specifically mentioned for palivizumab use in this scenario. Option D) GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is not a risk factor for severe RSV infection and is not an indication for palivizumab administration. Educationally, it is crucial for healthcare providers, particularly nurses, to understand the appropriate use of medications like palivizumab to prevent severe respiratory illnesses in vulnerable pediatric populations. By knowing the specific indications for palivizumab, nurses can advocate for appropriate treatment and support families in protecting their infants from RSV-related complications. Understanding the rationale behind these indications is essential for providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Adenovirus type 21. Swyer-James syndrome, or unilateral hyperlucent lung, is a condition characterized by focal or unilateral hyperlucency of the lung due to pulmonary vascular hypoplasia, air trapping, and reduced bronchial size following severe necrotizing pneumonia in childhood. Adenovirus type 21 is specifically associated with the development of this syndrome due to its propensity to cause severe necrotizing pneumonia, leading to the described radiographic findings. Option A) Influenza virus is incorrect because although influenza can cause severe respiratory infections, it is not specifically linked to Swyer-James syndrome. Option B) Parainfluenza virus is also incorrect as it primarily causes upper respiratory tract infections and is not a known cause of this syndrome. Option D) Rhinovirus is incorrect as it is a common cause of the common cold and generally does not lead to the severe necrotizing pneumonia associated with Swyer-James syndrome. Understanding the specific viral etiology associated with Swyer-James syndrome is crucial for pediatric nurses as it informs their assessment, management, and education of patients and families. Recognizing the link between Adenovirus type 21 and this syndrome can aid in early identification and appropriate interventions to prevent long-term complications. This knowledge enhances the nurse's ability to provide comprehensive care and support to pediatric patients with respiratory conditions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric respiratory assessment, sweat testing is a crucial diagnostic tool for conditions like cystic fibrosis. False negative results on sweat testing can occur in conditions that impact the sweat production or composition. The correct answer, "A) Edema," can lead to false negative results as it causes swelling and accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces, affecting the sweat secretion and composition. Option B) Eczema does not directly affect sweat production or composition, so it would not result in false negatives on sweat testing. Option C) Hypothyroidism and Option D) Dehydration may affect sweat quantity but not significantly alter the composition to cause false negatives on sweat testing for cystic fibrosis. In an educational context, understanding the factors that can influence sweat testing results is vital for nurses and healthcare providers who care for pediatric patients. This knowledge ensures accurate interpretation of diagnostic tests, leading to timely and appropriate interventions. Nurses must be able to differentiate conditions that can impact test results to provide optimal care for children undergoing respiratory assessments.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the most likely diagnosis for the adolescent presenting with sudden onset respiratory distress, cyanosis, retractions, and markedly decreased breath sounds over the left lung is C) Pneumothorax. A pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space, leading to lung collapse. The sudden onset of symptoms like respiratory distress, cyanosis, and decreased breath sounds are indicative of a pneumothorax, especially in a healthy adolescent with no significant medical history. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: A) Empyema: This is an accumulation of pus in the pleural space, usually due to a bacterial infection. While it can cause respiratory symptoms, it typically presents with fever, cough, and chest pain, which are not described in the case. B) Chylothorax: This is a condition where lymphatic fluid (chyle) accumulates in the pleural space. It is more commonly seen in conditions like thoracic duct injury or lymphatic malformations and does not typically present with the sudden onset of symptoms described. D) Staphylococcal pneumonia: This is a bacterial infection of the lung tissue caused by Staphylococcus aureus. While pneumonia can present with respiratory distress and decreased breath sounds, the sudden onset and unilateral nature of the symptoms described in the case are more indicative of a pneumothorax. In an educational context, understanding the differential diagnosis of respiratory distress in pediatric patients is crucial for nurses to provide timely and appropriate care. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of various respiratory conditions, like pneumothorax, empowers healthcare providers to initiate prompt interventions and prevent potential complications.