Pediatric Gastroenterology Flashcards

Which finding differentiates pyloric stenosis from GERD in a 4-week-old infant?

Answer: Projectile non-bilious vomiting after feeding

Pyloric stenosis presents with forceful, projectile, non-bilious vomiting due to gastric outlet obstruction, typically at 2–8 weeks of age.

Which pediatric GI condition is characterized by absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon?

Answer: Hirschsprung disease

Hirschsprung disease results from failure of neural crest cell migration, leaving a segment of colon without enteric ganglion cells and unable to relax.

The classic triad of intussusception in a toddler includes colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, and which other finding?

Answer: Currant-jelly stools

Currant-jelly stools result from mucosal ischemia and sloughing caused by the invaginated bowel obstructing blood supply.

An infant with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) on X-ray will most likely show which finding?

Answer: Pneumatosis intestinalis

Pneumatosis intestinalis — air within the bowel wall — is the pathognomonic radiographic finding of necrotizing enterocolitis.

Which condition should be ruled out first in a child presenting with painless rectal bleeding and a Meckel's scan?

Answer: Meckel's diverticulum with ectopic gastric mucosa

Meckel's diverticulum with ectopic gastric mucosa secretes acid that ulcerates adjacent ileum, causing painless rectal bleeding detectable by technetium-99m scan.

At what age should the CGRN nurse anticipate that pediatric colonoscopy requires general anesthesia rather than conscious sedation?

Answer: Typically children under 12 years require general anesthesia or deep sedation

Children under 12 years typically require deep sedation or general anesthesia for colonoscopy due to inability to cooperate and higher anxiety compared to adults.