ATI RN
Pediatric Cardiovascular Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
In Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, the correct answer is B) Wide QRS complexes occur more frequently than narrow QRS. This is because WPW is characterized by an accessory pathway between the atria and ventricles, leading to early ventricular activation and a delta wave on the ECG, resulting in a widened QRS complex. This finding is a hallmark of WPW syndrome and distinguishes it from other arrhythmias. Option A) The abnormal pathway in WPW is not between the atrial and ventricular myocardium, but rather an accessory pathway bypassing the normal conduction system. Option C) Narrow QRS complexes are not regular in WPW due to the presence of the accessory pathway causing abnormal conduction patterns. Option D) Verapamil is contraindicated in WPW as it can worsen conduction through the accessory pathway, potentially leading to life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation. Understanding the ECG findings in WPW is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients with this condition. Recognizing the characteristic wide QRS complexes helps in prompt identification and appropriate management to prevent complications associated with WPW syndrome, such as supraventricular tachycardia. Nurses play a vital role in monitoring these patients, administering correct treatments, and educating families on the signs and symptoms of arrhythmias in WPW syndrome.
Question 2 of 5
Concerning tetanus:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of pediatric cardiovascular nursing and pharmacology, understanding tetanus and its implications is crucial. Option C, "Immunization confers lifelong immunity," is the correct answer. This is because tetanus immunization, usually given as part of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis) vaccine series in childhood, provides long-lasting protection against the disease by stimulating the body's immune response to produce antibodies that fight the tetanus toxin. Option A, "The infection is usually fatal," is incorrect. While tetanus can be a serious and potentially fatal disease if left untreated, prompt medical intervention, including administration of tetanus immune globulin and antibiotics, can improve outcomes. Option B, "The muscle spasms are often localized," is also incorrect. Tetanus is characterized by generalized muscle stiffness and spasms, often starting in the jaw (lockjaw) and neck muscles before spreading to other parts of the body. Option D, "Incubation period is usually weeks," is incorrect. The incubation period for tetanus is typically shorter, ranging from a few days to several weeks after the bacteria Clostridium tetani enter a wound. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to be knowledgeable about tetanus, including its prevention through immunization, clinical manifestations, and management. By understanding the correct information about tetanus, nurses can effectively educate patients and caregivers about the importance of vaccination and prompt wound care to prevent this potentially life-threatening disease.
Question 3 of 5
The main risk factor for developing deep vein thrombosis is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of pediatric cardiovascular nursing, understanding the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is crucial for providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients. The main risk factor for developing DVT is prolonged immobility, making option A the correct answer. Prolonged immobility leads to venous stasis, which can cause blood to pool in the veins, increasing the risk of clot formation. Children who are immobile for extended periods, such as those hospitalized for a cardiac condition or recovering from surgery, are particularly at risk for DVT. Option B, age, is not the main risk factor for DVT in pediatric patients, although advanced age is a risk factor in adults. Option C, obesity, can contribute to venous stasis but is not the primary risk factor in pediatric patients. Option D, family history, while important in some cases, is not the main risk factor for developing DVT in pediatric patients. Educationally, it is important for pediatric cardiovascular nurses to recognize the significance of immobility in the development of DVT in children. Implementing preventive measures such as early mobilization, compression stockings, and anticoagulant therapy when appropriate can help reduce the risk of DVT in this vulnerable population. Regular assessment for signs and symptoms of DVT is also essential for early detection and intervention.
Question 4 of 5
In the treatment of asthma, inhaled corticosteroids:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the treatment of asthma, inhaled corticosteroids are primarily used to prevent long-term symptoms rather than relieve acute symptoms. The correct answer is B because inhaled corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms over time. Option A, relieving acute symptoms, is typically achieved through the use of short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol, which work quickly to open up the airways during an asthma attack. Option C, causing airway constriction, is incorrect as inhaled corticosteroids actually work to reduce inflammation and relax the airways, making it easier to breathe. Option D, stating that inhaled corticosteroids are contraindicated in pregnancy, is not accurate. In fact, inhaled corticosteroids are considered safe to use during pregnancy for the management of asthma as uncontrolled asthma can pose greater risks to both the mother and the baby. Educationally, understanding the role of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma management is crucial for healthcare providers working with pediatric patients with asthma. By knowing that these medications are used for long-term symptom control and prevention of asthma exacerbations, healthcare providers can better tailor treatment plans to effectively manage a child's asthma and improve their quality of life.
Question 5 of 5
Dubowitz criteria to assess gestational age include:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pediatric cardiovascular nursing, assessing gestational age accurately is crucial for providing appropriate care. The Dubowitz criteria are commonly used for this purpose, including various physical and neuromuscular assessments. In this case, the correct answer is B) Breast tissue. The development of breast tissue in newborns is one of the key indicators used in the Dubowitz criteria to assess gestational age. Premature infants typically have less developed breast tissue compared to full-term infants. A) Skin color is not a specific criterion in the Dubowitz assessment for gestational age. While skin color can provide some general information, it is not as reliable or specific as other criteria. C) Popliteal angle is not a part of the Dubowitz criteria. The popliteal angle is typically used to assess neuromuscular development in infants but is not specific to gestational age assessment. D) Moro reflex is an important neonatal reflex but is not included in the Dubowitz criteria for assessing gestational age. The Moro reflex is more related to neurological maturity rather than gestational age determination. Educationally, understanding the Dubowitz criteria and its components is essential for pediatric nurses to accurately assess newborns and provide appropriate care based on their gestational age. By knowing the specific criteria such as breast tissue development, nurses can better identify and care for infants with varying degrees of prematurity.