PEARS Pediatric Evaluation 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the first step in the pediatric assessment triangle?
- Breathing effort
- Skin color
- Appearance (Correct answer)
- Capillary refill time
Correct answer: Appearance
The pediatric assessment triangle begins with evaluating appearance to quickly assess if a child is critically ill.
Question 2: Which component of the pediatric assessment triangle indicates respiratory distress?
- Circulation
- Skin turgor
- Work of breathing (Correct answer)
- Mental status
Correct answer: Work of breathing
Work of breathing reflects the child’s respiratory effort, which helps identify potential respiratory problems.
Question 3: What does a capillary refill time longer than 2 seconds suggest in a child?
- Normal circulation
- Elevated blood pressure
- Delayed perfusion (Correct answer)
- Good hydration
Correct answer: Delayed perfusion
A capillary refill time >2 seconds may indicate poor perfusion, suggesting possible shock or dehydration.
Question 4: What is the purpose of using the AVPU scale in pediatric assessment?
- Measure hydration
- Assess consciousness (Correct answer)
- Check respiratory rate
- Evaluate heart rhythm
Correct answer: Assess consciousness
The AVPU scale assesses a child's level of consciousness: Alert, responds to Voice, responds to Pain, Unresponsive.
Question 5: Which vital sign is most concerning in a pediatric patient?
- Mild tachypnea
- Low-grade fever
- Bradycardia (Correct answer)
- Normal heart rate
Correct answer: Bradycardia
Bradycardia is a late and concerning sign in pediatric patients, often indicating impending cardiac arrest.
Question 6: What is the best indicator of adequate ventilation in a pediatric patient?
- Skin pallor
- Chest rise and fall (Correct answer)
- Nasal flaring
- Noisy breathing
Correct answer: Chest rise and fall
Chest rise and fall with each breath indicates effective ventilation in children.
PEARS Pediatric Evaluation 1
What is the first step in the pediatric assessment triangle?