Regarding body iron stores:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Iron is the stimulant for ferritin production. In the context of body iron stores, iron plays a crucial role in regulating the synthesis of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in a non-toxic form. When iron levels in the body are high, ferritin synthesis increases to store excess iron. Conversely, when iron levels are low, ferritin synthesis decreases to help release stored iron for essential functions. Regarding the incorrect options: A) Serum ferritin is actually a reliable indicator of body iron stores. It correlates well with total body iron levels and is commonly used in clinical practice. B) In a healthy individual, most iron is stored in hemoglobin within red blood cells, not as ferritin. D) Haemosiderin is a form of storage iron that is less readily mobilized compared to ferritin in cases of iron deficiency. In an educational context, understanding the regulation of ferritin production is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in pediatric patients who may be at risk of iron deficiency or overload. This knowledge helps in interpreting laboratory results, making appropriate treatment decisions, and providing patient education on iron balance and supplementation.

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.

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.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Is more likely in anti-thrombin III deficiency. Rationale: Anti-thrombin III is a natural anticoagulant that inhibits blood clot formation. When deficient, there is an increased risk of developing blood clots, including pulmonary embolism. Combined oral contraceptive pills contain estrogen and progestin, which further increase the risk of thrombosis by promoting clotting factors. Therefore, in a patient with anti-thrombin III deficiency, the risk of developing a pulmonary embolus while on the combined pill is significantly higher. B) Is more likely in protein C deficiency: Protein C is also an anticoagulant protein, but its deficiency typically leads to an increased risk of venous thrombosis rather than pulmonary embolism specifically in the context of oral contraceptive use. C) Is an absolute contraindication to the combined pill: While a history of pulmonary embolism would be a contraindication to estrogen-containing contraceptives, an acute event like a pulmonary embolus occurring while on the pill does not necessarily make it an absolute contraindication. D) Is an increased risk in smokers: Smoking is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including venous thromboembolism. However, the primary factor in this scenario is the underlying anti-thrombin III deficiency rather than smoking status alone. Educational Context: Understanding the interaction between pharmacological agents like oral contraceptives and underlying conditions such as coagulation disorders is crucial in pediatric cardiovascular nursing. This knowledge helps in assessing risks, making informed decisions about treatment options, and providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients with complex medical needs.