CHAPTER:9 DRUG THERAPY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

 CHAPTER:9

 DRUG THERAPY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Test Bank

Multiple Choice

1.  A nurse is caring for an infant after a surgical procedure. After ensuring

that the ordered dose is appropriate for the infant’s age and weight, the nurse administers a narcotic analgesic intravenously. When assessing the infant 15 minutes later, the nurse notes respirations of 22

breaths/minute and a heart rate of 110 beats/minute. The infant is asleep in the parent’s arms and does not awaken when vital signs are assessed. The nurse understands that these findings are the result of:

a.  an allergic reaction to the medication.

b.  immaturity of the blood-brain barrier in the infant.

c.  toxic effects of the narcotic, requiring naloxone as an antidote.

d.  unexpected side effects of medications in infants. ANS: B

The blood-brain barrier is not as well developed in infants, making them more susceptible to CNS

effects of medications. This assessment of the patient reveals no signs of an allergic reaction.

Although this infant is somnolent, the vital signs are stable, so toxicity is not a concern. CNS

effects are not unexpected with narcotic analgesics, but they may be more pronounced in infants.DIF: Cognitive Level: ApplicationREF: p. 65TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation