Pediatric Nursing – Exam #1 Review

24 question-and-answer flashcards covering core topics listed in the pediatric study guide for Exam #1.

What is the nurse’s primary role when assisting with a pediatric lumbar puncture?

Position and hold the child securely (usually side-lying with knees to chest), maintain strict asepsis, and monitor the child for complications during and after the procedure.

Which cerebrospinal-fluid findings are typical of viral (aseptic) meningitis?

Clear CSF, slightly elevated WBC & protein, normal glucose, and negative Gram stain/culture.

Give two plan-of-care interventions that can reduce a 3-year-old’s fear of a painful procedure.

1) Allow parental presence and comfort items; 2) Use therapeutic play or demonstrate on a doll and offer simple, truthful explanations.

Name two strategies nurses can use to encourage children to take oral medications.

Offer flavored syrups or mix with a small amount of non-essential food; give choices (cup vs. syringe) and use praise or reward charts.

List three age-appropriate toys for a hospitalized preschooler (3–5 yr).

Crayons/coloring books, large-piece puzzles, and pretend-play props (dress-up clothes, puppets, toy doctor kit).

How might pediatric patients commonly react to hospitalization?

Separation anxiety, regression (e.g., bed-wetting), fear of bodily harm, anger, and loss of control.

Identify five major seizure types seen in children.

Tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic, atonic (drop), and focal (partial) seizures.

During an active seizure, what is the nurse’s priority intervention?

Maintain airway—place the child side-lying, loosen clothing, protect head, and do NOT restrain or place anything in the mouth.

After a head injury, which sign suggests increasing intracranial pressure in a child?

Repeated vomiting, persistent headache, bulging fontanel (infant), or decreasing level of consciousness.

State three core symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Provide two key parent-education points for managing a child with ADHD.

Establish a consistent daily routine with clear expectations; use positive reinforcement and scheduled medication times.

List four risk factors associated with ADHD development.

Family history, prenatal exposure to tobacco/alcohol, prematurity or low birth weight, and traumatic brain injury.

Methylphenidate belongs to which drug class, and what is a common side effect?

Central-nervous-system stimulant; side effects include appetite loss/weight loss and insomnia.

Give two characteristic physical features of Down syndrome.

Upward-slanted palpebral fissures, single transverse (palmar) crease, hypotonia, or flat facial profile.

Name two hallmark signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) apparent by age three.

Limited or absent eye contact and social reciprocity; delayed speech or repetitive, restrictive behaviors.

Which nursing action best supports a hospitalized child with ASD?

Maintain a predictable, structured routine and minimize excess sensory stimuli (noise, lights).

List two clinical indicators of Failure to Thrive (FTT).

Weight or length below the 5th percentile for age and developmental delays or apathetic affect.

What symptoms might suggest Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in a child?

Re-experiencing events via nightmares/flashbacks, avoidance of reminders, emotional numbing, and hyperarousal (startle, irritability).

State two classic signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome (Abusive Head Trauma).

Retinal hemorrhages and subdural hematoma; others include irritability, seizures, or vomiting without fever.

Where should an oral syringe be placed when administering medication to an infant?

Along the side of the tongue toward the back of the cheek, administering slowly to prevent aspiration.

Give two early indicators of hearing impairment in a toddler.

No babbling or single words by 12–15 months, failure to respond to name or sound, use of gestures instead of speech.

What primary visual complaint is associated with myopia in children?

Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, resulting in squinting or sitting close to the television/board.

Dosage calculation: A medication is ordered 5 mg/kg for a child weighing 12 kg. How many milligrams should be given?

60 mg (5 mg × 12 kg).