Pediatric Nursing Flashcards

What is the most accurate method for calculating medication doses for pediatric patients?

Answer: Body weight in kilograms (mg/kg) or body surface area (BSA) calculation

Pediatric dosing is calculated by mg/kg body weight for most medications, with BSA (m²) used for critical drugs like chemotherapy. Weight must be measured accurately (not estimated) and doses must not exceed maximum adult doses. Double-check calculations are standard practice.

What are the signs of dehydration in an infant?

Answer: Sunken fontanelle, dry mucous membranes, decreased tears, decreased urine output, and poor skin turgor

Infant dehydration signs: sunken anterior fontanelle, dry mucous membranes, absent tears when crying, decreased urine output (<6 wet diapers/day), poor skin turgor (tenting), tachycardia, lethargy, and sunken eyes. Severe dehydration is a medical emergency in infants.

At what age should children receive the MMR vaccine according to the Saudi MOH immunization schedule?

Answer: 12 months (with second dose at 18 months)

The Saudi MOH immunization schedule recommends the first MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine at 12 months of age, with a second dose at 18 months. Earlier vaccination may be given during outbreaks but doesn't count toward the routine schedule.

What is the priority nursing intervention for a child in status epilepticus?

Answer: Ensure airway patency, place in side-lying position, protect from injury, administer benzodiazepines as ordered, and monitor oxygen saturation

Status epilepticus (seizure >5 minutes) is a neurological emergency. Priority: maintain airway (suction as needed), position on side (prevents aspiration), protect from injury (padding), administer IV lorazepam/diazepam as ordered, monitor SpO2, and time the seizure duration.

What is the normal respiratory rate for a newborn?

Answer: 30-60 breaths/minute

Normal newborn respiratory rate is 30-60 breaths per minute. Rates above 60 (tachypnea) may indicate respiratory distress, while periodic breathing (brief pauses <10 seconds) is normal in newborns. Always count for a full 60 seconds in infants.

What are the classic signs of intussusception in an infant?

Answer: Sudden episodic severe abdominal pain (drawing legs up), 'currant jelly' stools (blood and mucus), and a sausage-shaped mass in the abdomen

Intussusception presents with: sudden severe colicky abdominal pain (infant draws up legs, screams), followed by calm intervals, 'currant jelly' stools (mixture of blood and mucus), palpable sausage-shaped mass (usually right upper quadrant), and vomiting. This is a pediatric surgical emergency.