PEARS Recognizing Respiratory Emergencies 3

Question 1

In the PEARS primary assessment, which element of the respiratory exam evaluates the child's ability to maintain adequate gas exchange?

Accepted Answer

Pulse oximetry (SpO2)

Answer

Pulse oximetry reflects oxygenation status and is the primary indicator of adequate gas exchange during respiratory assessment.

Question 2

A 5-year-old is found unresponsive with agonal gasps occurring every 8–10 seconds. How should this breathing be classified?

Accepted Answer

Absent or ineffective breathing requiring rescue breaths

Answer

Agonal gasps are ineffective and do not support oxygenation; the child requires immediate rescue breathing.

Question 3

Which position best opens the airway of an unresponsive infant without suspected cervical spine injury?

Accepted Answer

Neutral sniffing position

Answer

The neutral sniffing position aligns the airway axes optimally in infants without cervical injury.

Question 4

A child in respiratory failure due to bronchiolitis is receiving blow-by oxygen but remains cyanotic with SpO2 of 78%. What is the most appropriate next intervention?

Accepted Answer

Begin bag-mask ventilation

Answer

SpO2 of 78% with cyanosis despite supplemental oxygen indicates respiratory failure requiring immediate bag-mask ventilation.

Question 5

Which respiratory rate would be considered tachypneic for a 10-year-old child?

Accepted Answer

26 breaths/min

Answer

A respiratory rate above 20 breaths/min in a 10-year-old is considered tachypneic and warrants further assessment.

(PEARS) Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization Practice Test

(PEARS) Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization Practice Test

PEARS Recognizing Respiratory Emergencies 3