During treatment of metabolic acidosis, what is the expected change in serum potassium level?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the treatment of metabolic acidosis, the expected change in serum potassium level is that it will drop. This is because in metabolic acidosis, there is an excess of hydrogen ions in the body, leading to an intracellular shift of potassium ions in exchange for hydrogen ions. As the acidosis is corrected, the excess hydrogen ions are eliminated, causing potassium ions to shift back into the cells, resulting in a decrease in serum potassium levels. Option B, stating that serum potassium will initially drop then rise, is incorrect because the primary correction of metabolic acidosis involves the movement of potassium back into the cells, leading to a decrease in serum levels overall. Option C, suggesting that serum potassium will initially rise then drop, is inaccurate as the correction of metabolic acidosis does not typically lead to an initial increase in serum potassium levels. Instead, the correction process involves the movement of potassium back into the cells, causing serum levels to decrease. Option D, stating that serum potassium will remain the same, is also incorrect because the correction of metabolic acidosis involves an exchange of ions that will lead to a decrease in serum potassium levels as acidosis is treated. Understanding the expected changes in serum electrolyte levels during metabolic disturbances is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers caring for pediatric patients. It helps in assessing and managing the patient's condition effectively, preventing potential complications related to electrolyte imbalances. Remembering the relationship between acid-base balance and electrolytes is essential in providing safe and competent care to pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a pediatric NCLEX practice quiz, understanding the interpretation of oxygen saturation levels is crucial for providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients. An oxygen saturation of 90% indicates that ninety percent of hemoglobin molecules are carrying oxygen. This is the correct answer (B) because oxygen saturation measures the percentage of hemoglobin binding sites in the bloodstream that are carrying oxygen. A saturation level of 90% is within the normal range for oxygen saturation in a healthy individual, indicating adequate oxygenation of tissues. Option A, stating that the PaO2 is 90 mmHg, is incorrect because PaO2 refers to the partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood, not the oxygen saturation level. These are two different measures of oxygen in the blood. Option C, suggesting the child is breathing 90% oxygen, is incorrect because an oxygen saturation of 90% does not necessarily mean the child is breathing 90% oxygen. Oxygen saturation reflects how much of the available hemoglobin is bound to oxygen, not the concentration of oxygen being breathed. Option D, claiming that you cannot give more than 10% oxygen, is incorrect as it misinterprets the concept of oxygen saturation. Oxygen saturation levels can range from 0% to 100%, and values in the 90% range are considered normal for healthy individuals. Educationally, understanding the significance of oxygen saturation levels is essential for nurses caring for pediatric patients, as it helps in assessing the adequacy of oxygen delivery to tissues. Knowing how to interpret oxygen saturation values accurately can guide clinical decision-making and interventions to optimize oxygenation in pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is option B: Marked tachypnea with recessions. This sign is not typically associated with circulatory failure in pediatric patients. Marked tachypnea with recessions is more indicative of respiratory distress rather than circulatory failure. Circulatory failure is more commonly associated with signs such as cyanosis despite supplied O2 (option A), gallop rhythm/murmur (option C), and an enlarged tender liver (option D). In educational context, it is crucial for nursing students preparing for the Pediatric NCLEX exam to understand the nuances of different signs and symptoms associated with circulatory and respiratory issues in pediatric patients. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for accurate assessment, diagnosis, and timely intervention in clinical practice. Understanding these subtle differences can help students provide appropriate care and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is A) Cardiogenic shock. Cardiogenic shock is characterized by decreased cardiac output leading to decreased central venous pressure. When the heart is unable to pump effectively, blood flow to vital organs is compromised, resulting in shock. Option B) Hypovolemic shock is incorrect because it is associated with decreased blood volume, not central venous pressure. In hypovolemic shock, there is insufficient circulating blood volume to adequately perfuse tissues. Option C) Septic shock is incorrect as it is associated with vasodilation and maldistribution of blood flow, leading to low blood pressure and poor tissue perfusion. Central venous pressure may actually be elevated in some cases of septic shock due to fluid resuscitation. Option D) Distributive shock is incorrect as it involves widespread vasodilation and pooling of blood in the peripheral vessels, causing a decrease in central venous pressure. Understanding the different types of shock and their respective pathophysiologies is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of shock, along with understanding the underlying causes, helps nurses provide prompt and effective interventions to stabilize the child's condition. This knowledge is vital for passing the NCLEX exam and for providing safe and competent care to pediatric patients in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The ideal rate of chest compression during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in infants is 100 per minute (Option C). This rate is recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) and other pediatric CPR guidelines. Option A (150 per minute) is too fast for infants and can lead to ineffective compressions and inadequate chest recoil, which are crucial for CPR success. Option B (125 per minute) is also too fast and may not allow for full chest recoil, affecting blood flow and oxygenation. Option D (75 per minute) is too slow and may not generate enough blood flow to vital organs. In an educational context, it is essential for healthcare providers, especially those working with pediatric patients, to be well-versed in the correct CPR techniques for infants. Understanding the appropriate compression rate, depth, and technique can significantly impact outcomes during resuscitation efforts. Proper training and regular practice sessions are crucial to ensure healthcare providers can confidently and effectively perform CPR when needed in real-life situations.