(2026) Q&A
1. Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the pediatric
assessment triangle (PAT)?
A) To provide a rapid visual assessment of a child's appearance, work of breathing,
and circulation
B) To diagnose specific medical conditions through laboratory analysis
C) To determine the exact dosage of emergency medications
D) To evaluate developmental milestones in detail
Correct Answer: To provide a rapid visual assessment of a child's appearance, work
of breathing, and circulation
Rationale: The PAT is a rapid assessment tool used to evaluate a child's overall status
from the doorway. It assesses appearance, work of breathing, and circulation to skin.
It does not diagnose specific conditions, determine medication dosages, or assess
developmental milestones. It helps providers determine the urgency of intervention.
2. What is the primary function of the Moro reflex in a newborn?
A) To assist with feeding
B) To indicate neurological integrity
C) To promote bonding with the mother
D) To regulate body temperature
Correct Answer: To indicate neurological integrity
,Rationale: The Moro reflex is a primitive reflex present at birth that indicates
neurological integrity. It typically disappears by 3 to 4 months. It is not related to
feeding, bonding, or temperature regulation. Its presence or absence helps assess
neurological development.
3. According to Erikson, which psychosocial stage is associated with the toddler years
(1–3 years)?
A) Trust versus mistrust
B) Autonomy versus shame and doubt
C) Initiative versus guilt
D) Industry versus inferiority
Correct Answer: Autonomy versus shame and doubt
Rationale: Erikson's autonomy versus shame and doubt stage occurs during
toddlerhood. Children seek independence and control over their actions. Trust versus
mistrust is infancy, initiative versus guilt is preschool, and industry versus inferiority is
school age. Supporting autonomy helps toddlers develop confidence.
4. A researcher is studying the effectiveness of family-centered care in a pediatric
unit. Which intervention best exemplifies this philosophy?
A) Restricting parental visitation to prevent infection
B) Collaborating with the family in decision-making and care planning
C) Performing all care tasks without family involvement
D) Standardizing care to ensure equal treatment for all families
Correct Answer: Collaborating with the family in decision-making and care planning
, Rationale: Family-centered care recognizes the family as the constant in a child's life
and emphasizes collaboration. Restricting visitation, excluding families from care, and
standardizing care without regard for individual needs contradict this philosophy.
Collaboration improves outcomes and satisfaction.
5. Which term refers to the acquisition of skills and functional abilities in a child?
A) Growth
B) Development
C) Maturation
D) Differentiation
Correct Answer: Development
Rationale: Development refers to the acquisition of skills and functional abilities,
including cognitive, language, motor, and social milestones. Growth refers to
measurable physical increases. Maturation is the sequential physical and behavioral
changes with age. Differentiation is cellular specialization.
6. What is the most likely outcome if a 6-month-old infant is fed only cow's milk?
A) Adequate iron stores for growth
B) Increased risk of iron deficiency anemia
C) Improved digestion and nutrient absorption
D) Decreased risk of allergic reactions
Correct Answer: Increased risk of iron deficiency anemia
Rationale: Cow's milk is low in iron and can cause occult gastrointestinal bleeding in
infants, leading to iron deficiency anemia. It is not recommended before 12 months.