PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support Managing Respiratory Emergencies Questions and Answers

Question 1

A 9-month-old infant presents with tachypnea, prominent nasal flaring, and audible wheezing.
The parents report a recent upper respiratory infection.
The infant is irritable but consolable.
Oxygen saturation is 93% on room air.
According to PALS guidelines, which of the following is the most appropriate initial management step for suspected bronchiolitis?

Accepted Answer

Perform nasal suctioning and provide supplemental oxygen.

Answer

Administer a nebulized short-acting beta-agonist (albuterol).

Answer

Immediately administer intravenous corticosteroids.

Answer

Obtain a chest X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.

Question 2

Which of the following clinical signs is considered a hallmark of upper airway obstruction in a pediatric patient?

Accepted Answer

Inspiratory stridor

Answer

Expiratory wheezing

Answer

Productive cough

Answer

Rales and crackles

Question 3

A 4-year-old child in the pediatric intensive care unit develops sudden, severe bradycardia. According to the PALS algorithm, what is the most common underlying cause of bradycardia in children?

Accepted Answer

Hypoxia

Answer

Primary cardiac conduction defect

Answer

Hypoglycemia

Answer

Hyperthermia

Question 4

A 7-year-old known asthmatic is brought to the emergency department with severe respiratory distress, audible wheezing, and accessory muscle use. Oxygen saturation is 89% on room air. What is the most important initial pharmacologic treatment for this child's condition?

Accepted Answer

Inhaled short-acting beta-agonist (albuterol) and systemic corticosteroids

Answer

Intravenous magnesium sulfate

Answer

Subcutaneous epinephrine

Answer

Inhaled ipratropium bromide alone

Question 5

You are performing bag-mask ventilation on a 6-month-old infant who has a pulse but is in respiratory arrest. What is the correct ventilation rate according to the most recent PALS guidelines?

Accepted Answer

1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds (20-30 breaths/min)

Answer

1 breath every 6 to 8 seconds (8-10 breaths/min)

Answer

1 breath every 5 to 6 seconds (10-12 breaths/min)

Answer

As fast as possible to raise oxygen saturation

Question 6

Which of the following findings best differentiates respiratory failure from respiratory distress in a child?

Accepted Answer

Altered mental status and cyanosis despite oxygen

Answer

Presence of tachypnea and retractions

Answer

Oxygen saturation of 95% on room air

Answer

Audible wheezing or stridor