Which of the following is an early manifestation of hypoxemia in young infants?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In young infants, irritability is an early manifestation of hypoxemia. When an infant is not getting enough oxygen, their body responds by becoming agitated and irritable. This is a crucial sign for early detection of hypoxemia in pediatric patients. Cyanosis, option A, is a late sign of hypoxemia and occurs when oxygen levels are significantly low. It is not an early manifestation seen in young infants. Glasgow coma score of six, option B, assesses neurological status and is not directly related to hypoxemia. Irregular breathing, option C, can be a sign of various respiratory conditions but is not specific to hypoxemia in young infants. Educationally, understanding these early signs of hypoxemia in infants is vital for healthcare professionals working in pediatric nursing. Recognizing these subtle cues promptly can lead to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes. Regular training and education on pediatric assessment skills are essential to enhance the quality of care provided to infants and children in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Normal anion gap metabolic acidosis refers to a condition where there is an excess of non-carbonic acids in the body with a normal anion gap. In this case, the correct answer is option B) Renal tubular acidosis. Renal tubular acidosis is a condition where the kidneys are unable to effectively excrete acids into the urine, leading to an accumulation of acids in the blood and subsequent metabolic acidosis with a normal anion gap. Option A) Diabetic ketoacidosis causes an increased anion gap metabolic acidosis due to the accumulation of ketones in the blood. Option C) Lactic acidosis results in an increased anion gap metabolic acidosis due to the accumulation of lactic acid. Option D) Salicylate poisoning leads to an increased anion gap metabolic acidosis due to the presence of salicylic acid. In an educational context, understanding the different causes of metabolic acidosis is crucial for pediatric nurses to accurately assess and manage pediatric patients with acid-base disorders. Knowledge of the specific characteristics of each type of metabolic acidosis is essential for providing appropriate and timely interventions to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the causes of hyperkalemia is crucial for providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients. In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Major trauma. Hyperkalemia with a normal total body potassium level can occur in major trauma due to the redistribution of potassium from the intracellular to the extracellular space. During traumatic events, such as crush injuries or burns, cells are damaged, leading to the release of intracellular potassium into the bloodstream, causing hyperkalemia. Option A) Hyperaldosteronism is incorrect because it usually leads to hypokalemia, as aldosterone promotes potassium excretion by the kidneys. Option B) Large amounts of potassium in IV fluids can cause hyperkalemia, but it would result in an increased total body potassium level. Option D) Metabolic alkalosis can also lead to hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing the specific etiologies of hyperkalemia in pediatric patients. Understanding the pathophysiology of hyperkalemia in major trauma can guide nurses in both preventing and managing this electrolyte imbalance in critically ill pediatric patients. It underscores the significance of a thorough assessment and knowledge of potential causes to deliver optimal care to pediatric patients with hyperkalemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The Look-Listen-Feel procedure is used in pediatric nursing to assess a child's breathing. This technique involves first looking for chest rise and fall to determine if the child is breathing, then listening for breath sounds, and finally feeling for air movement. This systematic approach allows nurses to quickly and accurately assess a child's respiratory status, which is crucial in pediatric care. Option A, assessing for responsiveness, is not the correct answer because the Look-Listen-Feel procedure specifically focuses on evaluating breathing, not the child's level of consciousness or responsiveness. Option B, assessing for airway patency, is also incorrect as this procedure does not directly address the patency of the airway, but rather the presence or absence of breathing. Option D, assessing for circulation, is incorrect as well as the Look-Listen-Feel procedure does not involve assessing for circulation but rather focuses solely on the assessment of breathing. In an educational context, understanding the Look-Listen-Feel procedure is essential for pediatric nurses as respiratory distress is a common and potentially life-threatening issue in pediatric patients. By mastering this technique, nurses can promptly identify respiratory problems and initiate appropriate interventions, thereby improving patient outcomes. It is crucial for nursing students to grasp the significance of this assessment tool to provide safe and effective care to pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the use of inotropic drugs in acute shock is crucial for providing safe and effective care to pediatric patients. In this question, the correct answer is D) Milrinone, as it is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that is not typically used as a first-line inotrope in acute shock situations in pediatric patients. A) Digitalis is a cardiac glycoside that can be used in certain cases of heart failure but is not a primary choice for acute shock due to its slower onset of action and potential toxicities in pediatric patients. B) Dopamine is a commonly used inotrope in pediatric patients with acute shock as it helps improve cardiac output and blood pressure. C) Dobutamine is another inotropic agent commonly used in pediatric patients with acute shock to improve cardiac contractility and output. Milrinone, the correct answer, is not typically the first choice in pediatric patients with acute shock due to its potential for causing hypotension and arrhythmias, especially in patients with underlying cardiac issues. Educationally, understanding the appropriate use of inotropic drugs in pediatric patients is essential for nurses caring for critically ill children. It is important to know the indications, contraindications, side effects, and appropriate dosages of these medications to ensure safe and effective care. By grasping the differences between various inotropic agents, nurses can make informed decisions in managing pediatric patients with acute shock, ultimately improving patient outcomes.