Which of the following characteristics of the pediatric respiratory system makes infants and young children more susceptible to respiratory distress compared to adults?

Larger airway diameter and more developed lung volume

Smaller airway diameter and immature respiratory muscles

Larger alveolar surface area and stronger respiratory muscles

More developed diaphragm and increased lung compliance

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Infants actually have smaller airway diameters and less lung volume than adults. A larger airway and fully developed lungs would decrease susceptibility to respiratory compromise, not increase it.

B. Infants’ airways are narrow, so even minor swelling or mucus buildup can significantly obstruct airflow. Additionally, respiratory muscles, including the diaphragm and intercostals, are immature and fatigue easily, making it harder for infants to maintain adequate ventilation during illness or stress. These factors increase the risk of rapid respiratory compromise.

C. Infants have fewer alveoli and less surface area for gas exchange, and their respiratory muscles are weaker than adults, not stronger. This contributes to increased risk, not protection.

D. The diaphragm is less developed in infants, and their chest wall is more compliant, which can lead to paradoxical movements and less effective ventilation. Increased diaphragm development and lung compliance would enhance respiratory function, not increase susceptibility.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Hydralazine is an antihypertensive used to manage severe hypertension in preeclampsia. While controlling blood pressure is essential in preeclampsia, hydralazine does not reverse the toxic effects of magnesium. Administering hydralazine in this context would not address the immediate life-threatening neuromuscular or respiratory depression.

B. Methylergonovine is a uterotonic agent used to treat postpartum hemorrhage by stimulating uterine contractions. It has no effect on magnesium toxicity and is unrelated to seizure prophylaxis or respiratory function. Administering this drug would not correct the client’s critical condition.

C. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression. Magnesium sulfate toxicity is not opioid-related, so Narcan would not improve respiratory rate, restore reflexes, or address neuromuscular blockade caused by magnesium.

D. Calcium gluconate is the specific antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. It works by antagonizing the effects of magnesium at the neuromuscular junction, restoring deep tendon reflexes, and improving respiratory muscle function. Administration is intravenous, slow, and under close monitoring. Simultaneously, the magnesium infusion should be stopped immediately to prevent further accumulation. After stabilization, the nurse should monitor vital signs, urine output, reflexes, and serum magnesium levels to ensure safe recovery.

A. Pulmonary hypertension leading to increased peripheral resistance B. Pancarditis leading to long-term valve damage, especially the mitral valve C. Acute kidney injury leading to bladder insufficiency D. Coronary artery aneurysms arising from hypertension

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Pulmonary hypertension is not a primary complication of rheumatic fever. While pulmonary vascular changes can occur secondary to left-sided heart dysfunction, this is not the main concern in acute rheumatic fever.

B. Rheumatic fever is an autoimmune response to Group A Streptococcus. It can involve the heart (carditis), joints (polyarthritis), skin (erythema marginatum), and central nervous system (Sydenham chorea). Cardiac involvement is the most serious complication. Pancarditis may affect the endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium, but valvular damage, especially to the mitral valve, can persist long-term, potentially leading to rheumatic heart disease. Monitoring for heart murmurs, arrhythmias, and signs of heart failure is critical.

C. While post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis can follow strep infection, rheumatic fever does not primarily affect the kidneys, and bladder insufficiency is unrelated.

D. Coronary artery aneurysms are associated with Kawasaki disease, not rheumatic fever. Hypertension is not a direct feature of rheumatic fever, and coronary involvement is not typical.

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Which of the following characteristics of the pediatric respiratory system makes infants and young children more susceptible to respiratory distress compared to adults?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a pregnant client with preeclampsia who is receiving IV magnesium sulfate. The nurses assess the following symptoms: -Respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min Urine output 25ml during the last hour Absent deep tendon reflexes What medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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