Pediatric Hematology Basics
What protein in red blood cells carries oxygen?
Hemoglobin
Which leukemia is the most common in children?
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
what medication should you never give in a Vaso-Occlusive Crisis?
meperidine (Demerol) - risk of seizures
What is the most common mode of HIV transmission in children?
perinatal (vertical) transmission
At what age do children begin to understand death is irreversible?
school-age (6–9 years)
What is the normal role of platelets?
Help clot blood and stop bleeding
Which tumor often presents with an abdominal mass that crosses the midline?
Neuroblastoma
Which factor is deficient in hemophilia A?
factor VIII
What test is used to diagnose HIV in infants under 18 months?
PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
What is the most important nursing intervention for a dying child and family?
providing honest, age-appropriate communication and emotional support
Where does hematopoiesis occur in infants?
All bones (red marrow)
Why is LP contraindicated in suspected brain tumors with increased ICP?
May cause brain herniation
What is the primary goal during a sickle cell crisis?
Relieve pain and improve oxygenation/hydration
How do you treat HIV?
ART - suppress viral load and preserve immune function
What is palliative care’s main focus
quality of life and symptom management
Which vitamin is necessary for synthesis of clotting factors?
vitamin K
What chemotherapy side effect is characterized by painful mouth sores?
Mucositis/stomatitis
What is the mainstay prophylactic antibiotic for children with sickle cell to prevent infection?
Penicillin
What antibiotic is given to prevent Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia in HIV+ children?
trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
What physical sign often indicates death is near in children?
Cheyne–Stokes respirations or mottling of extremities
What WBC type is most responsible for fighting bacterial infections?
Neutrophils
What oncologic emergency involves massive cell breakdown releasing potassium, phosphate, and uric acid?
Tumor lysis syndrome
In hemophilia, what should be avoided due to bleeding risk?
aspirin/NSAIDs
What CD4 count indicates severe immunosuppression in a child?
<200 cells/mm³
What is the priority for pain management in terminally ill children?
Giving scheduled pain medication with additional PRN doses as needed