Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following parameters is the LEAST reliable when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child?

• A. Capillary refill time
• B. Presence of peripheral pulses
• C. Skin color and temperature
• D. Systolic blood pressure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Systolic blood pressure is the least reliable parameter when assessing perfusion status in a 2-year-old child. In young children, blood pressure measurements can be variable, affected by factors like anxiety or crying. Capillary refill time, presence of peripheral pulses, and skin color and temperature are more reliable indicators of perfusion status in this age group.

2. During the pediatric assessment process, which scenario would be the LEAST appropriate for the transition phase?

• A. A parent is available to help keep the child calm.
• B. The child is unstable and needs rapid transport.
• C. You determine that the child's condition is stable.
• D. Your transport time is greater than 30 minutes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a pediatric assessment, the transition phase is a critical period where care is handed over from prehospital providers to the hospital team. If the child is unstable and requires rapid transport, it is not appropriate to delay for a transition phase. In such cases, immediate transport to a higher level of care is paramount to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Choice A is appropriate as having a parent present can help keep the child calm during the transition. Choice C is also appropriate as transitioning a stable child allows for a smoother handover. Choice D, while indicating a longer transport time, does not necessarily affect the need for a transition phase as long as the child's condition remains stable.

3. What is the MOST appropriate method for assessing a small child's level of responsiveness?

• A. Palpate for a radial pulse.
• B. Shout at the child to see if they respond.
• C. Ask the parent about the child's level of responsiveness.
• D. Tap the child and shout, 'Are you okay?'

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When assessing a small child's level of responsiveness, the most appropriate method is to tap the child and shout, 'Are you okay?' This approach is more likely to elicit a response from the child, providing a direct assessment of their level of consciousness and responsiveness. Palpating for a radial pulse (Choice A) is not the most direct method for assessing responsiveness in a child. Shouting at the child (Choice B) may startle them and not provide an accurate assessment. Asking the parent (Choice C) does not directly evaluate the child's responsiveness.

4. You have arrived for your shift on the children's ward and need to assess a 2-year-old who is accompanied by his father. Identify the appropriate strategy to successfully complete a focused assessment:

• A. Allow the child to inspect the equipment for faults before and during assessment
• B. Ask parent to leave room until assessment has been completed
• C. Perform traumatic or invasive procedures first
• D. Have the child sit in parents lap and request assistance if necessary

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Having the child sit in parent's lap can help reduce anxiety and allow for a more accurate assessment.

5. After an advanced airway device has been inserted in a 6-month-old infant in cardiopulmonary arrest, you should deliver ventilations at a rate of:

• A. 10 to 12 breaths/min.
• B. 12 to 20 breaths/min.
• C. 6 to 8 breaths/min.
• D. 8 to 10 breaths/min.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The appropriate ventilation rate for an infant with an advanced airway is 8 to 10 breaths per minute.

Similar Questions