Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

In a child with exacerbated cystic fibrosis, what assessment finding should the nurse expect?

1. Oxygen saturation of 95%

2. Oxygen saturation of 85%

3. Oxygen saturation of 90%

4. Oxygen saturation of 80%

The correct answer is: Oxygen saturation of 85%

In a child with exacerbated cystic fibrosis, the expectation of an oxygen saturation reading is typically lower than the normal range due to the impact of airway obstruction and lung function impairment associated with the disease. Cystic fibrosis leads to thick, sticky mucus buildup that obstructs the airways and hinders effective gas exchange, resulting in complications such as recurrent lung infections and decreased pulmonary function. An oxygen saturation of 85% indicates significant hypoxemia, highlighting the respiratory challenges faced by the child during an exacerbation. This reading underscores the critical nature of impaired oxygenation in this population and aligns with what clinicians might expect during a period of acute respiratory distress or exacerbation of their condition. In comparison, oxygen saturation levels of 95%, 90%, and 80% present a different clinical scenario. Despite 90% being somewhat lower than baseline levels observed in healthy children, it may still indicate a relatively stable condition, whereas 95% suggests normal or near-normal oxygenation. An oxygen saturation of 80% reflects a level of severity comparable to 85%, but falls below what is typically monitored as a severe concern during an exacerbation. Thus, the oxygen saturation of 85% is a fitting representation of the diminished respiratory function that is characteristic