What is an anion gap?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) The difference between unmeasured positively & negatively charged molecules in plasma. An anion gap is a calculated value used in medicine to help determine the cause of metabolic acidosis. In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the anion gap is crucial for assessing a child's acid-base balance and diagnosing potential underlying health conditions. Option A is incorrect because anion gap specifically refers to unmeasured ions, not all positively and negatively charged molecules in plasma. Option B is incorrect as it only mentions sodium and does not encompass all unmeasured negatively charged molecules. Option D is incorrect because the anion gap does not involve bicarbonate levels, but rather unmeasured positively charged ions. In pediatric nursing, knowing how to interpret anion gap values can aid in identifying conditions such as metabolic acidosis, renal failure, or intoxications. It is essential for nurses to grasp this concept to provide effective care to pediatric patients with complex medical needs. Understanding the nuances of anion gap calculation is a valuable skill that can guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Early septic shock. Distributive shock is a type of shock where there is a widespread dilation of the blood vessels leading to decreased systemic vascular resistance. In early septic shock, there is a systemic inflammatory response to infection which can lead to vasodilation and distributive shock. Option A) Cardiac tamponade is incorrect as it is a type of obstructive shock where there is impaired filling of the heart due to fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac. Option B) Dehydration is incorrect as it leads to hypovolemic shock, not distributive shock. Option D) Critical aortic stenosis is incorrect as it leads to obstructive shock due to impaired blood flow out of the heart. Educationally, understanding the different types of shock and their underlying causes is crucial for pediatric nurses to provide appropriate and timely interventions. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of distributive shock, such as seen in early septic shock, allows nurses to initiate treatment promptly to stabilize the child's condition and prevent further complications. This knowledge helps in improving patient outcomes and providing quality care in pediatric settings.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, recognizing early signs of shock in infants is crucial for prompt intervention and prevention of deterioration. In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Hypotension. Hypotension is a late sign of shock in infants, not an early manifestation. Option B) Irritability is a common early sign of shock in infants, as they may become fussy, restless, or inconsolable. Option C) Peripheral vasoconstriction is a compensatory mechanism in response to shock, leading to cool extremities, not an early manifestation. Option D) Tachycardia is also an early sign of shock in infants, as the body tries to compensate for decreased cardiac output. Educationally, understanding the progression of shock symptoms in infants is vital for nurses to provide timely and appropriate care. By knowing the early signs, nurses can intervene quickly to prevent further deterioration and improve patient outcomes. Continuous education and practice in recognizing pediatric shock symptoms are essential for nurses working in various healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) of an infant, chest compressions should be performed with 2 fingers of one hand. This technique is recommended by the American Heart Association for infants under 1 year old because their chests are small and compressing with 2 fingers allows for proper depth and pressure without causing harm to the infant's delicate chest. Option A: Using the heel of one hand and the other hand on top is not recommended for infants during CPR as it can lead to excessive force being applied, potentially causing injury to the infant's chest. Option B: Using the heel of one hand only is not the correct technique for infant CPR as it may not provide adequate pressure and depth needed for effective chest compressions on a small infant. Option C: Using 4 fingers of one hand is also not the recommended method for infant CPR as it can lead to uneven pressure distribution and may not achieve the appropriate compression depth required to circulate blood effectively. Educational Context: Understanding the correct technique for performing chest compressions during infant CPR is crucial for healthcare providers and caregivers to ensure the best chances of successful resuscitation in an emergency situation involving an infant. Proper training and practice using the recommended 2-finger technique can help improve outcomes and save lives.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) Dilute artificial formula. Total body sodium depletion occurs when there is an inadequate amount of sodium in the body. In this scenario, dilute artificial formula would lead to sodium depletion because the formula lacks the necessary sodium content required by the body for proper functioning. Therefore, choosing this option as the correct answer is essential in understanding the correlation between sodium levels and artificial formula intake in pediatric patients. A) SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone) is not associated with total body sodium depletion. In SIADH, there is excessive retention of water, leading to dilutional hyponatremia rather than sodium depletion. B) Psychogenic polydipsia is characterized by excessive thirst and fluid intake, but it does not directly result in total body sodium depletion. It may lead to water intoxication but not sodium depletion. D) Nephrotic syndrome is a condition characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. While it can lead to sodium retention, it is not typically associated with total body sodium depletion. Educationally, understanding the causes and effects of total body sodium depletion in pediatric patients is crucial for nursing practice. It emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and formula preparation in maintaining electrolyte balance in children. Understanding these concepts can help nurses provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients at risk for electrolyte imbalances.