ATI RN
Pediatric Nurse Exam Sample Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The drug contraindicated in children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In pediatric nursing, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of drug contraindications to ensure the safety and well-being of young patients. In the context of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, the drug contraindicated is Digitalis (Option C). Digitalis, also known as Digoxin, is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions by slowing the heart rate and increasing the force of contractions. However, in children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Digitalis can exacerbate the condition by increasing the force of myocardial contraction, leading to potential adverse effects like worsening of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and arrhythmias. Antibiotics (Option A) are not inherently contraindicated in children with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy unless there are specific drug interactions to consider. Diuretics (Option B) may actually be beneficial in managing fluid overload in these patients. Immunosuppressives (Option D) are not typically used in the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children. It is essential for pediatric nurses to be well-versed in pharmacology and understand the implications of drug therapy in various pediatric conditions. This knowledge helps in providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients, especially those with complex cardiac conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. By selecting the correct medication and being aware of contraindications, nurses can contribute to positive patient outcomes and prevent potential complications.
Question 2 of 5
In pediatric basic life support, how is airway opening achieved in a 5-year-old child with a car accident?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pediatric basic life support, achieving an open airway is crucial for optimal oxygenation and ventilation, especially in emergency situations like a car accident. The correct answer, option D - Jaw thrust, is the most appropriate technique for a 5-year-old child in this scenario. The jaw thrust maneuver is preferred in pediatric patients with suspected cervical spine injuries, as it allows for maintaining cervical spine alignment while opening the airway by displacing the mandible forward. This reduces the risk of exacerbating any potential spinal cord injury that may have occurred during the car accident. Option A - Head tilt and chin lift with neck extended, and Option B - Head tilt and chin lift with neck neutral, are techniques used in adults or conscious pediatric patients without suspected spinal injuries. However, in this case, these maneuvers could potentially worsen the child's condition by compromising spinal alignment. Option C - Abdominal thrust, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, is used for choking emergencies and is not appropriate for airway management in an unconscious child with a potential spinal injury. It is essential for healthcare providers, especially pediatric nurses, to be well-versed in the correct airway management techniques for different age groups and clinical scenarios to provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients in emergencies. Regular training and practice of pediatric basic life support skills are crucial to ensure readiness and competence in managing such critical situations.
Question 3 of 5
Depth of chest compression in CPR?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In pediatric CPR, the correct depth of chest compression is 4-5 cm (B). This depth is recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines for pediatric resuscitation. Maintaining adequate compression depth is crucial for effective circulation and oxygenation during CPR in children. Option A, 1-2 cm, is too shallow and may not provide sufficient cardiac output. Option C, 3 cm, is also inadequate as it falls short of the recommended depth. Option D, 7-8 cm, is too deep for pediatric patients and may cause harm by damaging delicate structures. Educationally, understanding the correct depth of chest compressions in pediatric CPR is vital for healthcare providers caring for children in emergency situations. Proper technique can greatly impact the outcome of pediatric cardiac arrest cases. It is essential for nurses and other healthcare professionals working with children to be well-versed in current CPR guidelines to provide the best possible care and improve patient outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following is true regarding acute epiglottitis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Acute epiglottitis is a serious condition that can quickly progress to airway compromise in pediatric patients. Option A, "Fulminating course of high fever and drooling of saliva," is the correct answer because it accurately describes a classic presentation of acute epiglottitis. The rapid onset of symptoms, including high fever and drooling, is characteristic of this condition and requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent respiratory distress. Option B, "Absence of toxic manifestations," is incorrect because acute epiglottitis typically presents with toxic manifestations such as fever, sore throat, and respiratory distress due to the rapid progression of inflammation in the epiglottis. Option C, "The most common cause is para-influenza," is incorrect as the most common causative organism for acute epiglottitis is actually Haemophilus influenzae type B, although with the introduction of the Hib vaccine, the incidence has decreased significantly. Option D, "Good response to nebulized adrenaline," is incorrect as the primary treatment for acute epiglottitis is securing the airway to prevent respiratory compromise. Nebulized adrenaline may provide temporary relief of symptoms but definitive management involves maintaining a patent airway through intubation or tracheostomy. In an educational context, understanding the key clinical features and management of acute epiglottitis is crucial for pediatric nurses to recognize and respond to this potentially life-threatening condition promptly. Nurses must be vigilant in assessing pediatric patients with suspected epiglottitis to prevent airway obstruction and ensure timely intervention to prevent complications.
Question 5 of 5
Cystic fibrosis typically causes:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Steatorrhea, chronic chest symptoms, and failure to thrive. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. Steatorrhea, or the inability to properly digest and absorb fats, is a hallmark symptom of cystic fibrosis due to pancreatic insufficiency. Chronic chest symptoms result from thick, sticky mucus buildup in the lungs, leading to recurrent infections and breathing difficulties. Failure to thrive is common in children with cystic fibrosis due to malabsorption issues and increased energy expenditure. Option A is incorrect because meconium aspiration syndrome is a separate condition that occurs in newborns when they inhale meconium-stained amniotic fluid during delivery, not specific to cystic fibrosis. Option C is incorrect as hypernatremia is not a typical finding in cystic fibrosis. Instead, patients with cystic fibrosis are more prone to developing hyponatremia due to excessive salt loss in sweat. Option D is incorrect as hypercholesterolemia is not a typical feature of cystic fibrosis. In fact, individuals with cystic fibrosis often have difficulty gaining weight and may even have trouble absorbing essential nutrients, including fats. Educationally, understanding the key clinical manifestations of cystic fibrosis is crucial for healthcare professionals working with pediatric patients. Recognizing these symptoms can aid in early diagnosis and timely intervention to improve outcomes for individuals with this condition. It is essential to differentiate cystic fibrosis from other diseases with similar symptoms to provide appropriate care and support to affected children and their families.