Pediatric Nursing Study Guide
Prematurity | Cystic Fibrosis and Sickle Cell | Oncology | Infection and Inflammatory Conditions
1. Prematurity and the At-Risk Newborn
Premature infants are born before 37 weeks and face problems from immature body systems.
KEY PREMATURITY COMPLICATIONS
• Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS): from surfactant deficiency; alveoli collapse.
• Retinopathy of prematurity: linked to prolonged high supplemental oxygen, so oxygen is titrated
carefully.
• Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC): feeding intolerance, abdominal distension, bloody stools.
• Cold stress: little subcutaneous and brown fat plus a large surface area means rapid heat loss.
• Apnea of prematurity: a pause longer than 20 seconds, or shorter with bradycardia or cyanosis.
Kangaroo (skin-to-skin) care supports thermoregulation, bonding, and stable vital signs.
2. Genetic Disorders: Cystic Fibrosis and Sickle Cell
Both cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease are autosomal recessive, meaning the child inherits an
affected gene from both parents.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) produces thick, sticky mucus that affects the lungs and pancreas. Diagnosed by the
sweat chloride test (elevated chloride).
CYSTIC FIBROSIS MANAGEMENT
• Chest physiotherapy: schedule before meals or 1 to 2 hours after, and at bedtime (not right after
eating).
• Pancreatic enzymes: give with ALL meals and snacks, because mucus blocks pancreatic ducts and
causes malabsorption.
• Diet: high calorie, high protein, with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Sickle cell disease causes red cells to sickle and block blood flow, producing painful vaso-occlusive
crises.
SICKLE CELL DISEASE
Crisis management: hydration, oxygen, pain control (opioids), and rest.
Triggers: dehydration, infection, hypoxia, cold, and stress.
Avoid cold and ice on painful areas; cold causes vasoconstriction and worsens sickling. Use warmth.
Prevent infection: prophylactic penicillin and full vaccination (including pneumococcal), because the spleen
no longer works well.
For personal study use only — not for redistribution. Page 1
Prematurity | Cystic Fibrosis and Sickle Cell | Oncology | Infection and Inflammatory Conditions
1. Prematurity and the At-Risk Newborn
Premature infants are born before 37 weeks and face problems from immature body systems.
KEY PREMATURITY COMPLICATIONS
• Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS): from surfactant deficiency; alveoli collapse.
• Retinopathy of prematurity: linked to prolonged high supplemental oxygen, so oxygen is titrated
carefully.
• Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC): feeding intolerance, abdominal distension, bloody stools.
• Cold stress: little subcutaneous and brown fat plus a large surface area means rapid heat loss.
• Apnea of prematurity: a pause longer than 20 seconds, or shorter with bradycardia or cyanosis.
Kangaroo (skin-to-skin) care supports thermoregulation, bonding, and stable vital signs.
2. Genetic Disorders: Cystic Fibrosis and Sickle Cell
Both cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease are autosomal recessive, meaning the child inherits an
affected gene from both parents.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) produces thick, sticky mucus that affects the lungs and pancreas. Diagnosed by the
sweat chloride test (elevated chloride).
CYSTIC FIBROSIS MANAGEMENT
• Chest physiotherapy: schedule before meals or 1 to 2 hours after, and at bedtime (not right after
eating).
• Pancreatic enzymes: give with ALL meals and snacks, because mucus blocks pancreatic ducts and
causes malabsorption.
• Diet: high calorie, high protein, with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Sickle cell disease causes red cells to sickle and block blood flow, producing painful vaso-occlusive
crises.
SICKLE CELL DISEASE
Crisis management: hydration, oxygen, pain control (opioids), and rest.
Triggers: dehydration, infection, hypoxia, cold, and stress.
Avoid cold and ice on painful areas; cold causes vasoconstriction and worsens sickling. Use warmth.
Prevent infection: prophylactic penicillin and full vaccination (including pneumococcal), because the spleen
no longer works well.
For personal study use only — not for redistribution. Page 1
