What is the anion gap?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) The difference between unmeasured plasma cations & anions. The anion gap is an important concept in pediatric nursing as it helps in diagnosing various metabolic disorders such as metabolic acidosis. The anion gap is calculated by subtracting the sum of measured cations (sodium) from the sum of measured anions (chloride and bicarbonate) in the plasma. Option A is incorrect because the anion gap is not about the difference between positively and negatively charged plasma molecules in general. Option B is incorrect because the anion gap specifically relates to unmeasured anions, not just unmeasured negatively charged molecules in general. Option D is incorrect because the anion gap does not involve bicarbonate specifically, it is about the difference between unmeasured plasma cations and anions. Understanding the anion gap is crucial for nurses working with pediatric patients as abnormal values can indicate underlying health conditions that require prompt assessment and intervention. It is a valuable tool in assessing acid-base balance and can guide treatment decisions in pediatric patients with metabolic disturbances.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, resuscitation drugs are crucial in managing critically ill children. The correct answer, "D) Digitalis," is not typically used in pediatric resuscitation scenarios due to its potential toxic effects in children. Digitalis is a cardiac glycoside primarily used in adult populations with specific cardiac conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Atropine (A), Bicarbonate (B), and Epinephrine (C) are commonly used in pediatric resuscitation for different purposes. Atropine is used to treat bradycardia, bicarbonate can be given in cases of severe metabolic acidosis, and epinephrine is a key drug in managing cardiac arrest situations in children. Understanding the appropriate use of resuscitation drugs in pediatric patients is crucial for nurses caring for children in emergency situations. It is essential to be aware of the indications, dosages, and potential adverse effects of these medications to provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients in critical conditions. Being able to differentiate between drugs that are appropriate and inappropriate for pediatric resuscitation is fundamental knowledge for pediatric nurses to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the indications and contraindications for gastric lavage is crucial for providing safe and effective care to children in emergency situations. Gastric lavage, the process of flushing out the stomach, is used in cases of certain poison ingestions. The correct answer, option D (All of the above), is the appropriate choice as all the listed conditions are contraindications for gastric lavage. Option A, Glasgow Coma Scale 5, indicates severe neurological impairment, making the child unable to protect their airway during the procedure, which can lead to aspiration and further complications. Option B, kerosene ingestion, is a petroleum-based product that can cause lung injury if aspirated during the lavage procedure. Option C, ingestion of corrosives, can cause damage to the esophagus, and lavage can further exacerbate the injury by increasing contact with the corrosive substance. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to recognize when gastric lavage is contraindicated to prevent harm to the child. Understanding these contraindications helps nurses make informed decisions and provide appropriate care in poisoning emergencies. By knowing the specific scenarios in which gastric lavage should not be performed, nurses can advocate for alternative treatments and ensure the safety and well-being of their pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) 10. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is used to assess the level of consciousness in patients with head injuries. It is composed of three components: eye opening response, verbal response, and motor response. Each component is scored, and the total score indicates the level of consciousness. For a 4-year-old patient who opens eyes to a painful stimulus, is confused, and withdraws from pain, the GCS score would be as follows: - Eye opening response: 2 - Verbal response: 5 (confused) - Motor response: 3 (withdraws from pain) Total GCS score = 2 + 5 + 3 = 10 Option A) 8 is incorrect because it would indicate a lower level of consciousness which is not consistent with the patient's presentation. Option C) 11 is incorrect as well because the patient's responses do not align with a GCS score of 11. Option D) 13 is also incorrect as it would indicate a higher level of consciousness than what is described in the scenario. In a pediatric nursing context, understanding and correctly interpreting the Glasgow Coma Scale is crucial for assessing and managing head-injured patients. It helps healthcare providers to communicate effectively about the patient's level of consciousness and to monitor changes over time. This knowledge is essential for providing appropriate and timely interventions to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the management of hyperkalemia, it is crucial to understand the appropriate lines of treatment to prevent serious complications. The correct answer, B) Beta blockers, is not a typical treatment for hyperkalemia. Beta blockers do not directly impact potassium levels in the body and are not indicated for managing hyperkalemia. A) Calcium gluconate IV is used to stabilize cardiac cell membranes in severe hyperkalemia to prevent cardiac arrhythmias. C) Sodium bicarbonate is used in cases of metabolic acidosis associated with hyperkalemia to help shift potassium into cells. D) Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is a cation-exchange resin that helps remove potassium from the body through the gastrointestinal tract. Educationally, understanding the treatment options for hyperkalemia is vital for pediatric nurses to provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients. Nurses must be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia and implement appropriate interventions promptly to prevent life-threatening complications. It is important to continuously update knowledge on pediatric pharmacology and treatment guidelines to ensure optimal patient outcomes.