Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

Which findings should a nurse expect in a toddler with Kawasaki disease?

1. Increased temperature and bradycardia

2. Gingival hyperplasia and cervical lymphadenopathy

3. Xerophthalmia and increased temperature

4. Bradycardia and weight gain

The correct answer is: Xerophthalmia and increased temperature

In a toddler diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, one of the hallmark findings is a prolonged fever, typically lasting more than five days and often accompanied by other symptoms such as conjunctival injection and changes in the oral cavity. Xerophthalmia, which refers to dry eyes, is less commonly associated directly with Kawasaki disease, but the association with elevated temperature aligns more closely with the expected presentation. Kawasaki disease is characterized by systemic inflammation and can result in a variety of clinical symptoms including fever, rash, and changes to the lips and oral mucosa, such as strawberry tongue. The increased temperature reflects the inflammatory response, which is a key feature of the condition. In contrast, other options present findings that do not accurately reflect Kawasaki disease. Bradycardia is not typical; rather, tachycardia due to fever is more common. Gingival hyperplasia is not directly associated with Kawasaki disease, and cervical lymphadenopathy can occur, but it is not one of the primary symptoms used for diagnosis. While weight gain may occur in a clinical context, it is not a recognized symptom of Kawasaki disease; instead, there may be weight loss associated with prolonged illness. Overall, toddlers with Kawasaki disease would demonstrate a fever as a significant and consistent symptom,