ATI RN
Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
In pica disorder, the MOST appropriate statement is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is option D) it needs a period of more than a month to be stated. Pica disorder is characterized by the persistent eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances over a period of at least one month. This behavior is inappropriate to the individual's developmental level and cannot be explained by cultural or religious practices. Option A) it is only related to eating clay and earth is incorrect because pica involves the consumption of a wide range of non-food items beyond just clay and earth. Option B) usually in children below 2 years is incorrect as pica can occur in individuals of any age, although it is more commonly seen in children, individuals with developmental disabilities, and pregnant women. Option C) not present with other eating disorders is incorrect as pica can coexist with other eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia. Educationally, understanding pica disorder is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially pediatric clinical nurse specialists, as they may encounter patients with this condition. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pica, understanding its potential causes, and knowing how to intervene appropriately are essential for providing comprehensive care to individuals with this disorder.
Question 2 of 5
The MOST consistent statement of structural MRI brain findings of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) is
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) increase brain size. In autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), structural MRI brain findings consistently show an increase in overall brain size, particularly in early childhood. This is known as macrocephaly. This abnormal brain growth is believed to be due to accelerated brain growth in the first few years of life in individuals with ASD. Option A) diffuse brain atrophy is incorrect because ASD is not typically associated with generalized brain atrophy. Option C) focal fibrosis and Option D) white matter degenerative changes are also incorrect as they are not commonly observed structural MRI findings in ASD. Educationally, understanding the structural MRI findings in ASD is important for healthcare professionals, especially pediatric clinical nurse specialists, as it can aid in early identification and diagnosis of ASD. Recognizing the characteristic increase in brain size can contribute to a multidisciplinary approach to managing and supporting individuals with ASD. This knowledge can also help in providing appropriate interventions and support services to improve outcomes for children with ASD.
Question 3 of 5
Soft areas in the occipital region suggest the irregular calcification and wormian bone formation usually associated with the following conditions EXCEPT
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is B) craniosynostosis. Soft areas in the occipital region suggest irregular calcification and wormian bone formation, which are NOT associated with craniosynostosis. Craniosynostosis is a condition where one or more of the fibrous sutures in an infant's skull prematurely fuses, leading to skull deformities. This condition does not typically present with soft areas in the occipital region. Now let's look at why the other options are incorrect: A) Osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones, but it does not typically involve soft areas in the occipital region. C) Cleidocranial dysostosis is a genetic disorder that affects the development of bones, including the skull and collarbones, but it does not present with soft areas in the occipital region. D) Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. While individuals with Down syndrome may have certain craniofacial features, soft areas in the occipital region are not a characteristic feature of this condition. Educationally, understanding the physical manifestations associated with different conditions is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially pediatric clinical nurse specialists. Recognizing these distinctions aids in accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of pediatric patients. This question highlights the importance of clinical observation and knowledge of characteristic findings in various conditions affecting pediatric patients.
Question 4 of 5
One of the following is a common neonatal respiratory problem associated with premature infants
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding common neonatal respiratory problems is crucial for providing effective care. In this scenario, the correct answer is B) apnea. Apnea, or the temporary cessation of breathing, is a common respiratory issue in premature infants due to their immature respiratory centers. Option A) bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a chronic lung disease that primarily affects premature infants who have received prolonged mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy, but it is not a common neonatal respiratory problem associated with prematurity. Option C) congenital pneumonia is a less common condition in neonates and is typically associated with maternal infections rather than prematurity. Option D) pneumothorax, while it can occur in premature infants, is not as common a respiratory issue directly linked to prematurity as apnea. Educationally, nurses need to be well-versed in neonatal respiratory conditions to provide timely interventions and support to these vulnerable patients. Understanding the unique challenges premature infants face in maintaining respiratory function is essential for delivering safe and effective care in neonatal settings.
Question 5 of 5
Early postnatal exposure to dexamethasone, within the 1st wk of life, in VLBW infants, is associated with the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is D) cerebral palsy. Early postnatal exposure to dexamethasone in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants is associated with various adverse effects. Metabolic derangements and poor growth are potential consequences of dexamethasone use in the neonatal period. Additionally, dexamethasone can increase the risk of sepsis due to its immunosuppressive effects. Cerebral palsy is not typically associated with early postnatal exposure to dexamethasone. It is crucial for pediatric clinical nurse specialists to understand the potential risks and benefits of medications used in neonatal care. Dexamethasone is a potent corticosteroid that can have significant impacts on a vulnerable population like VLBW infants. Nurses must be vigilant in monitoring for adverse effects and advocating for safe and evidence-based practices in neonatal care. It is important to educate healthcare providers and families about these potential risks to ensure the best outcomes for these fragile infants.