Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a serious sign of respiratory failure in a child?

1. Tachypnea

2. Hyperventilation

3. Bradypnea

4. Hypopnea

The correct answer is: Bradypnea

Bradypnea, which refers to an abnormally slow respiratory rate, is indeed considered a serious sign of respiratory failure in a child. When a child exhibits bradypnea, it may indicate significant respiratory distress or failure, where the body is not able to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation. In a pediatric patient, a decreased respiratory rate can be particularly alarming as it might signify that the respiratory drive is compromised, potentially leading to hypoventilation and subsequent respiratory acidosis. In contrast, tachypnea (an increased respiratory rate) and hyperventilation (rapid, deep breathing) can be signs of various conditions that might not necessarily indicate respiratory failure but could stem from factors such as anxiety, fever, or early respiratory distress. On the other hand, hypopnea (shallow breathing) is often a sign of reduced respiratory effort, which can also alert healthcare providers to potential issues but can be less immediately concerning compared to bradypnea. In pediatric patients, monitoring for respiratory patterns is critical; thus, recognizing bradypnea as a sign of possible respiratory failure is crucial for timely intervention and management.