ATI RN
Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
On the second day of life, the patient in Questions and experiences bradycardia and hypotension with cyanosis and a metabolic acidosis Likely diagnoses include (may choose more than one)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct diagnosis is hypoglycemia (Option D). Hypoglycemia in a neonate can present with bradycardia, hypotension, cyanosis, and metabolic acidosis. Glucose is essential for the neonatal brain's energy requirements, and low levels can lead to serious complications. Therefore, prompt recognition and treatment are crucial. The other options can be ruled out for the following reasons: A) Subcapsular hepatic hematoma: This typically presents with signs of abdominal distension or jaundice, not with the symptoms described in the question. B) Intraventricular hemorrhage: This is more commonly associated with prematurity and presents with neurological signs, not the cardiovascular and metabolic symptoms described. C) Pneumomediastinum: This condition usually presents with respiratory distress or chest pain, not with the combination of bradycardia, hypotension, cyanosis, and metabolic acidosis seen in this case. Understanding neonatal emergencies is critical for pediatric clinical nurse specialists to provide timely and effective care. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and differentiating them from other conditions is vital in managing neonatal patients effectively and ensuring positive outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
What is the most appropriate diagnosis for a 7-year-old boy with recurrent motor movements?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate diagnosis for a 7-year-old boy with recurrent motor movements is C) Persistent Tic Disorder. This is the correct answer because Persistent Tic Disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more motor tics and/or vocal tics that have been present for more than a year. In children, motor tics are commonly seen as sudden, rapid, recurrent, non-rhythmic movements of specific muscle groups. Option A) Tourette's Disorder is incorrect because Tourette's Disorder involves the presence of both motor and vocal tics for at least a year. Since the scenario only mentions motor movements, Tourette's Disorder is not the most appropriate diagnosis. Option B) Provisional Tic Disorder is incorrect because this diagnosis is used when the tics have been present for less than a year. In the case of the 7-year-old boy with recurrent motor movements, the duration of symptoms is longer, making Provisional Tic Disorder less likely. Option D) Sydenham Chorea is incorrect as it is a neurological disorder characterized by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements affecting primarily the face, hands, and feet. This condition is associated with rheumatic fever and usually occurs in the context of recent streptococcal infection, which is not mentioned in the scenario. Educationally, understanding the differences between these diagnoses is crucial for healthcare providers, especially pediatric clinical nurse specialists, when assessing and managing children with movement disorders. Recognizing the specific criteria for each disorder helps in making accurate diagnoses and developing appropriate treatment plans to support the child's health and well-being.
Question 3 of 5
For a 5-year-old child with breath-holding spells, which response/advice is NOT true?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Order MRI brain. The reason this response is not true is that breath-holding spells in children are typically benign and do not require neuroimaging like an MRI of the brain. A) Reassurance and behavioral instruction is the correct approach for managing breath-holding spells in a 5-year-old child. These spells are often triggered by frustration or anger and can be managed through reassurance and teaching parents/caregivers how to respond appropriately. C) Ordering an EEG is also not typically necessary for breath-holding spells as they are considered a behavioral issue rather than a neurological disorder. EEGs are used to assess electrical activity in the brain and are not indicated for this condition. D) While a neurological consultation may be considered if there are atypical features or concerns about the spells, it is not usually the first-line intervention for typical breath-holding spells in children. Educationally, it is important for pediatric clinical nurse specialists to understand the typical presentation and management of common childhood conditions like breath-holding spells. This knowledge allows for appropriate assessment, intervention, and education for both the child and their caregivers. Understanding the rationale behind each response option helps to inform clinical decision-making and ensures the best outcomes for pediatric patients.
Question 4 of 5
At what ages should children ideally be screened for autistic spectrum disorders?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) 18 and 24 months for screening children for autistic spectrum disorders. This timing aligns with the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations for autism screening at the 18 and 24-month well-child visits. Screening at these specific ages allows for early identification and intervention, which can significantly impact a child's long-term outcomes. Option A) 6 and 12 months is too early for accurate autism screening as many developmental milestones are still expected to be achieved within this timeframe, making it difficult to differentiate typical development from potential signs of autism. Option B) 12 and 18 months is also too early for reliable autism screening as many behaviors associated with autism may not be fully evident at these ages, leading to potential under-identification of children who may benefit from early intervention. Option D) 24 and 30 months is too late for optimal autism screening as early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes for children with autism. Waiting until 24 months may delay access to critical services and support that could positively impact a child's development. Educationally, understanding the recommended ages for autism screening is essential for healthcare providers working with children and families. Early detection and intervention can lead to improved outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorders, underscoring the importance of timely and accurate screening practices.
Question 5 of 5
In pica disorder, the MOST appropriate statement is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pica disorder, the most appropriate statement is that it needs a period of more than a month to be stated (Option D). This is because 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 considered developmentally inappropriate and not part of culturally supported or socially normative practices. Option A is incorrect because pica disorder is not limited to eating clay and earth; individuals with pica may consume a wide range of non-food items. Option B is incorrect because pica disorder can occur in individuals of any age, not just in children below 2 years. It is more commonly observed in children, but it can also affect adolescents and adults. Option C is incorrect because pica disorder can coexist with other eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. It is important to assess for and differentiate pica from other eating disorders to provide appropriate interventions. Educationally, understanding pica disorder is crucial for healthcare providers, especially pediatric clinical nurse specialists, as they play a key role in assessing, diagnosing, and managing pediatric patients with various disorders. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of pica disorder can lead to early intervention and appropriate treatment to prevent potential complications associated with ingesting non-food substances.