CPEN Respiratory Emergencies 3

Question 1

Which of the following is the FIRST priority when managing a child in respiratory failure?

Accepted Answer

Administer supplemental oxygen

Answer

Airway and oxygenation are always the first priority; supplemental oxygen should be applied immediately in any child showing signs of respiratory failure.

Question 2

A 5-month-old with RSV bronchiolitis has an SpO2 of 88% on room air, moderate retractions, and a respiratory rate of 72. The most appropriate initial intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula

Answer

Supplemental oxygen is the mainstay of bronchiolitis treatment; bronchodilators are not routinely recommended as they show no consistent benefit.

Question 3

A tension pneumothorax in a pediatric patient is BEST initially treated with:

Accepted Answer

Needle decompression at the 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line

Answer

Tension pneumothorax is a clinical diagnosis requiring immediate needle decompression — do not delay for imaging.

Question 4

Heliox therapy in pediatric respiratory emergencies is MOST beneficial for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Upper airway obstruction (croup/foreign body)

Answer

Heliox (helium-oxygen mixture) reduces turbulent airflow and work of breathing, making it most useful for upper airway obstruction conditions like croup.

Question 5

Which medication is CONTRAINDICATED in pediatric anaphylaxis with severe bronchospasm?

Accepted Answer

Morphine IV

Answer

Morphine (and other opioids) can cause histamine release and worsen bronchospasm and hypotension in anaphylaxis.

CPEN - Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CPEN - Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CPEN Respiratory Emergencies 3