HESI Pediatrics Quizlet

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Varicella (Chickenpox). Varicella can lead to the complication of encephalitis, characterized by brain inflammation. Encephalitis is a known complication of chickenpox in rare cases. Scarlet fever (choice B) is caused by Streptococcus bacteria and does not typically result in encephalitis. Poliomyelitis (choice C) primarily affects the spinal cord and does not lead to encephalitis. Whooping cough (choice D) can cause severe coughing spells but does not directly result in encephalitis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Systolic blood pressure is the least reliable parameter when assessing the perfusion status of a 2-year-old child with possible shock. In pediatric patients, especially young children, blood pressure may not decrease until significant shock has already occurred, making it a late indicator of inadequate perfusion. Depending solely on systolic blood pressure to evaluate perfusion status in this age group can lead to a delay in appropriate interventions. Distal capillary refill time, skin color, and temperature changes, and the presence of peripheral pulses are more sensitive and early indicators of perfusion status in pediatric patients. Monitoring distal capillary refill provides information on peripheral perfusion, while changes in skin color and temperature can signal circulatory compromise. Evaluating the presence or absence of peripheral pulses offers insights into vascular perfusion. These parameters offer more reliable and prompt feedback on a child's perfusion status compared to systolic blood pressure.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct clinical manifestation the healthcare provider is likely to observe in a child with suspected intussusception is abdominal distension. Intussusception involves one portion of the intestine telescoping into another, causing obstruction. Abdominal distension is a common symptom due to the obstruction and buildup of gas and fluid in the affected area. While projectile vomiting can occur, it is not as specific to intussusception as abdominal distension. Currant jelly stools, which are stools containing blood and mucus, are a classic sign of intussusception but are not a clinical manifestation observable on assessment. Constipation is not typically associated with intussusception, as this condition often presents with symptoms of bowel obstruction rather than constipation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Positive fibrin split products indicate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a condition characterized by the widespread formation of blood clots throughout the body. In DIC, clotting factors are consumed, leading to increased fibrin split products. A shortened prothrombin time (Choice A) is not typically seen in DIC as it indicates faster blood clotting, which is not consistent with the pathophysiology of DIC. An increased fibrinogen level (Choice B) is also not a characteristic finding in DIC, as fibrinogen levels may be decreased due to consumption in the formation of clots. Increased platelets (Choice D) are not typically observed in DIC; instead, thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count) is more common due to their consumption in clot formation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct intervention for a sprained ankle is to apply ice for 20 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours, then remove for 60 minutes to prevent tissue damage. This regimen helps reduce swelling and pain. Bed rest with the leg elevated for an extended period (36 hours) may lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion. While NSAIDs can be used for pain, they may not be necessary if pain is manageable with ice and rest. Using a compression dressing for 72 hours continuously may impede proper circulation and delay healing by restricting blood flow.