LPN Pediatrics Related

Review LPN Pediatrics related questions and content

You are treating a 5-year-old child who has had severe diarrhea and vomiting for 3 days and is now showing signs of shock. Supplemental oxygen has been given, and you have elevated his lower extremities. En route to the hospital, you note that his work of breathing has increased. You should:

  • A. begin positive-pressure ventilations and reassess the child.
  • B. lower the extremities and reassess the child.
  • C. listen to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal breath sounds.
  • D. insert a nasopharyngeal airway and increase the oxygen flow.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When the work of breathing increases after elevating the legs, it is important to lower the extremities. Elevating the lower extremities in a child with signs of shock can worsen the condition by reducing venous return to the heart. Lowering the extremities can help improve venous return and potentially alleviate the increased work of breathing.