PALS Systematic Assessment 3

Question 1

During the secondary assessment of a pediatric patient, SAMPLE history is obtained. What does the 'A' in SAMPLE stand for?

Accepted Answer

Allergies

Answer

A in SAMPLE stands for Allergies, including drug, food, and environmental allergies that may affect treatment choices.

Question 2

A 3-year-old presents with fever, petechiae, and altered mental status. The PAT shows abnormal appearance and mottled skin. What is the most appropriate next action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately activate emergency response and begin primary assessment interventions

Answer

Abnormal PAT findings indicating cardiopulmonary compromise require immediate emergency activation and primary assessment interventions without delay.

Question 3

In pediatric assessment, which capillary refill time is considered abnormal?

Accepted Answer

Greater than 2 seconds

Answer

Capillary refill greater than 2 seconds is abnormal and suggests reduced perfusion to the extremities.

Question 4

A 7-year-old has stridor at rest, drooling, and refuses to lie down. Which PAT component is most abnormal?

Accepted Answer

Both Appearance and Work of Breathing

Answer

Stridor indicates increased work of breathing, while drooling and refusal to lie flat suggest altered appearance (anxious, posturing), making both components abnormal.

Question 5

During the tertiary assessment, which diagnostic tool is specifically used to detect occult dysrhythmias or conduction abnormalities?

Accepted Answer

12-lead ECG

Answer

A 12-lead ECG is used in the tertiary assessment to identify dysrhythmias, conduction defects, and QT abnormalities not apparent on a monitor strip.

PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support Practice Test

PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support Practice Test

PALS Systematic Assessment 3