Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

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Study for the Pediatric ATI Exam. Use quizzes and detailed questions with explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Which method is appropriate for determining pain in a 3-year-old child who has just had a tonsillectomy?

Ask the parents.
Use the FACES scale.
Use the numeric rating scale.
Check the child's temperature.

The correct answer is: Use the FACES scale.

Using the FACES scale is an appropriate method for assessing pain in a 3-year-old child who has just undergone a tonsillectomy. This age group typically does not understand or effectively use more advanced pain rating systems, such as the numeric rating scale, which requires the ability to identify and quantify pain using numbers. The FACES scale, on the other hand, utilizes simple facial expressions that depict varying levels of pain, making it more relatable and easier for young children to comprehend and communicate their discomfort. Additionally, while asking the parents can provide some context about the child’s usual demeanor or past behavior related to pain, it does not directly assess the child's current pain level. Checking the child's temperature is also not an appropriate method for evaluating pain; it is a vital sign that can provide information about infection or recovery status but does not measure pain intensity or quality. Therefore, the FACES scale is the most effective tool in this context to gauge the child's pain following the surgical procedure.