Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

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What should be monitored when an infant shows signs of breathing difficulty?

  1. Temperature only

  2. Notify the doctor immediately

  3. Wait to see if symptoms improve

  4. Keep the infant active

The correct answer is: Notify the doctor immediately

Monitoring an infant showing signs of breathing difficulty is critical, as this can indicate a serious underlying health issue. Immediate notification of a doctor or healthcare provider is essential. This option underscores the gravity of the situation; respiratory distress can rapidly worsen, and timely medical intervention can be lifesaving. The healthcare provider can assess the situation appropriately and determine the necessary interventions, which may include further diagnostic tests, medication, or other immediate treatments to stabilize the infant's condition. In situations where an infant is experiencing breathing difficulties, it's vital to act promptly rather than delay intervention or wait for symptoms to improve, as breathing issues can deteriorate quickly. Additionally, keeping the infant active is not advisable since it may exacerbate respiratory distress. Monitoring temperature alone does not address the immediate concerns related to the infant's breathing, which is the priority in this scenario.