Growth & Development
What are the key differences between cephalocaudal and proximodistal growth patterns?
Cephalocaudal growth occurs from head to toe, with head and upper body developing before the lower body. Proximodistal growth develops from the center of the body outward, with torso and central areas developing before the arms and legs.
What is the role of the Canadian Children's Charter in pediatric nursing?
The Canadian Children's Charter emphasizes protecting children's rights, including life, liberty, and security, ensuring well-being, and advocating for vulnerable populations
What communication techniques are most effective for infants?
Use non-verbal communication, such as soothing sounds, eye contact, and comforting touch.
Name two non-pharmacological methods to manage pain in pediatric patients.
Use distraction techniques (e.g., bubbles or storytelling) and comfort measures (e.g., warm compresses).
What are two common symptoms of pyloric stenosis in infants?
Symptoms of pyloric stenosis include projectile vomiting and an olive-shaped mass in the upper abdomen.
Name two developmental milestones for toddlers between 12–15 months.
Developmental milestones for toddlers 12–15 months can include walking independently, climbing, throw a ball, hold spoon or cup unassisted, stacks blocks, separation anxiety, exploratory play, and using simple words or gestures to communicate
When parents refuse medical treatment for their child, what ethical principles guide the nurse's response?
Ethical principles include beneficence (acting in the child’s best interests), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), and justice (fairness). Nurses also consult legal frameworks like the Canadian Children’s Charter.
How should a nurse modify their communication when working with a toddler experiencing hospitalization?
Use simple language, allow the child to choose activities or toys, and explain procedures on toys or dolls.
What is the FLACC pain scale, and for which age group is it used?
The FLACC scale assesses pain in infants and toddlers based on facial expressions, activity, and cry.
Describe the main nursing interventions for a child with celiac disease.
Nursing interventions for celiac disease include advising a gluten-free diet, monitoring for malnutrition, and managing symptoms like diarrhea.
What is Erikson’s stage of psychosocial development for preschoolers, and how does it influence their behavior?
Initiative vs. Guilt, where children explore their world, take initiative, and gain confidence if supported, or feel guilt if reprimanded
Name two types of abuse and provide one example of an indicator for each.
Physical, emotional, sexual, neglect
What strategies are useful when teaching a preschooler about a medical procedure?
Use visual aids or storytelling, engage in imaginative play, and demonstrate procedures on toys.
Describe the steps for calculating a safe pediatric medication dose.
Obtain accurate weight in kilograms, Verify the safe dose range (mg/kg), Calculate the total dose and check against the maximum safe dose.
What are the clinical features of Down syndrome?
Clinical features of Down syndrome include hypotonia, almond-shaped eyes, flat nose, lower set ears, and cognitive delays.
Describe the cognitive stage according to Piaget for school-age children and its implications for learning.
School-age children are in Piaget’s Concrete Operational stage, where they develop logical thinking, understand cause and effect, and begin using problem-solving skills
What is informed consent, and how does it apply to pediatric patients?
Informed consent in pediatrics involves the parent/guardian, but older children’s assent is also sought, ensuring understanding of the procedure.
How can you best involve school-age children in discussions about their care plan?
Offer choices, provide detailed explanations, and encourage the child to ask questions to help them feel in control.
Why is weight-based dosing critical in pediatric medication administration?
Weight-based dosing accounts for children’s smaller body size and unique pharmacokinetics, ensuring safe medication levels.
How does gastroesophageal reflux typically present in children, and what lifestyle changes can help manage it?
Symptoms of GERD include chronic cough, chest pain, and regurgitation. Managing it includes avoiding lying down after meals and dietary changes.
Explain Kohlberg's moral development stages relevant to adolescence.
In Kohlberg's moral development theory, adolescents are in the post-conventional stage, where they develop personal moral principles and prioritize ethical reasoning over societal norms.
Discuss the nursing responsibilities in documenting suspected child abuse cases.
Nurses must document objective observations (e.g., injuries, behaviors), statements from the child or caregiver, and actions taken, such as notifying authorities.
Explain how cultural competence enhances communication in pediatric nursing.
Cultural competence enhances communication by respecting cultural values, addressing language barriers, and incorporating family preferences.
Name one medication contraindicated in children and explain why. What should you use instead?
Aspirin is contraindicated due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. Codeine due to respiratory depression. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead.
Explain the diagnostic process and treatment for intussusception.
Intussusception presents with abdominal pain and currant-jelly stools. Diagnosis involves a contrast enema, which may also treat the condition.