Systematic Assessment Flashcards

When performing the initial 'from the doorway' assessment using the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT), which component is evaluated using the TICLS mnemonic?

Answer: Appearance

The Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) consists of three components: Appearance, Work of Breathing, and Circulation to Skin. The 'Appearance' component is assessed using the TICLS mnemonic, which stands for Tone, Interactiveness, Consolability, Look/Gaze, and Speech/Cry.

A 4-year-old child is brought to the clinic. From across the room, you observe the child is sitting in a tripod position with audible wheezing and prominent nasal flaring. According to the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT), which component is most clearly abnormal?

Answer: Work of Breathing

The signs described—tripod position, audible wheezing, and nasal flaring—are all classic indicators of increased respiratory effort. These findings directly relate to the 'Work of Breathing' component of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle.

During the Primary Assessment of a pediatric patient, which of the following is evaluated under 'D' for Disability?

Answer: Pupil response and level of consciousness

In the PEARS systematic approach, the Primary Assessment follows the ABCDE sequence. 'D' stands for Disability, which involves a brief neurological evaluation including level of consciousness (using a scale like AVPU), and assessing pupil size and reactivity to light.

Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) in the PEARS systematic assessment?

Answer: To form a rapid general impression and determine the urgency for care

The PAT is a rapid, visual, and auditory tool used in the first few seconds of encountering a child to form a general impression. It helps the provider quickly determine the severity of the child's condition (sick or not sick), identify the general type of physiologic problem, and establish the urgency for intervention, all before a hands-on assessment begins.

A healthcare provider is gathering a history for a 6-year-old who fell off his bike. The provider asks the parent, 'What was the last thing he had to eat or drink?' This question is part of which assessment component?

Answer: Secondary Assessment (SAMPLE history)

The Secondary Assessment involves a focused history and physical exam. The SAMPLE mnemonic is a tool used to gather this history. The 'L' in SAMPLE stands for 'Last Oral Intake,' which includes the last food and drink consumed.

You are assessing an infant and note pallor and mottling of the skin. These findings are most directly related to which component of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT)?

Answer: Circulation to Skin

The 'Circulation to Skin' component of the PAT involves a visual assessment of skin color and perfusion. Pallor (paleness) and mottling are key indicators of poor circulation.