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.

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.

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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of treating metabolic acidosis in Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in pediatric patients, alkali therapy may be utilized. In this scenario, the correct answer, which is D) hyperkalemia, is the least likely result of alkali therapy. Alkali therapy involves the administration of substances that increase the pH of blood, such as bicarbonate, to counteract acidosis. Hyperkalemia is not a typical result of alkali therapy in this context because alkali administration tends to shift potassium into the cells, leading to potential hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia. Option A) skin slough from infiltration is incorrect because alkali therapy can indeed cause skin sloughing if there is infiltration during administration. Option B) increased serum osmolarity is incorrect as alkali therapy can lead to dilutional effects rather than increased osmolarity. Option C) hypernatremia is incorrect because alkali therapy can potentially lead to hyponatremia due to dilutional effects. In an educational context, understanding the potential complications and effects of alkali therapy in pediatric patients with RDS is crucial for pediatric clinical nurse specialists. It is essential to grasp the expected outcomes of treatments to ensure safe and effective care for pediatric patients with metabolic acidosis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), the correct answer is C) in most situations, a pathogen is identified. This is because NEC is often a polymicrobial infection without a single causative pathogen. The incorrect options can be explained as follows: A) In fatal cases, gangrene may extend from the stomach to the rectum, which is true in severe cases of NEC due to bowel ischemia and necrosis. B) The greatest risk factor for NEC is prematurity, as preterm infants have an underdeveloped gastrointestinal tract and immune system, making them more susceptible. D) NEC is much less common in infants fed human milk, as breast milk contains protective factors that reduce the risk of NEC compared to formula-fed infants. Educationally, understanding the pathology of NEC is crucial for pediatric clinical nurse specialists as they care for vulnerable neonates. Recognizing the risk factors, clinical presentation, and complications of NEC is essential for early detection and intervention to improve outcomes in this high-risk population.