The parent of a child with cystic fibrosis (CF) calls the clinic ...

[penza]

The parent of a child with cystic fibrosis (CF) calls the clinic nurse to report that the child has developed tachypnea, tachycardia, dyspnea, pallor, and cyanosis.
 
  The nurse should tell the parent to bring the child to the clinic because these signs and symptoms are suggestive of what condition?
  a. Pneumothorax
  b. Bronchodilation
  c. Carbon dioxide retention
  d. Increased viscosity of sputum

Question 2

A child with cystic fibrosis is receiving recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (DNase). What statement about DNase is true?
 
  a. Given subcutaneously
  b. May cause voice alterations
  c. May cause mucus to thicken
  d. Not indicated for children younger than age 12 years

[yeungji]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Usually the signs of pneumothorax are nonspecific. Tachypnea, tachycardia, dyspnea, pallor, and cyanosis are significant signs and symptoms and are indicative of respiratory distress caused by pneumothorax. If the bronchial tubes were dilated, the child would have decreased work of breathing and would most likely be asymptomatic. Carbon dioxide retention is a result of the chronic alveolar hypoventilation in CF. Hypoxia replaces carbon dioxide as the drive for respiration progresses. Increased viscosity would result in more difficulty clearing secretions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
One of the only adverse effects of DNase is voice alterations and laryngitis. DNase is given in an aerosolized form, decreases the viscosity of mucus, and is safe for children younger than 12 years.