Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

What should be assessed when exposing a patient during an assessment exposure?

1. Signs of dehydration

2. Signs of heat/chemical exposure or abuse

3. Patient's weight and height

4. Patient's medical history

The correct answer is: Signs of heat/chemical exposure or abuse

The correct answer focuses on the need to assess signs of heat or chemical exposure and potential abuse during a patient assessment exposure. This is crucial, especially in pediatric care, where children may be at risk for various forms of harm, including physical abuse or neglect. When exposing a patient for assessment, healthcare providers must be vigilant for any indicators of injury or maltreatment, such as burns, unusual marks, or signs of distress that may suggest ongoing abuse or exposure to harmful substances. Such awareness is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient. Recognizing these signs allows for timely interventions and referrals to appropriate services, ultimately facilitating better health outcomes for the child. In contrast, aspects like dehydration, weight and height measurements, or medical history, while important in the context of overall health assessment, do not directly pertain to the immediate evaluation of exposure and risk factors related to injury or abuse.