Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Nasal flaring is a key indicator of respiratory distress in a child. This sign occurs when a child is struggling to breathe, and they engage additional muscles to help with inhalation. By flaring the nostrils, the child attempts to increase airflow and enhance oxygen intake. This is particularly common in pediatric patients, as their respiratory systems are still developing and can be more sensitive to changes in oxygen levels.

Respiratory distress can manifest through various signs and symptoms, and nasal flaring specifically suggests that the child is experiencing difficulty with breathing. It is often paired with other signs such as retractions or an increased respiratory rate, helping healthcare professionals assess the severity of the child’s condition.

In contrast, while bradycardia, hypotension, and skin discoloration can be serious medical issues, they are not specific indicators of respiratory distress. Bradycardia may indicate cardiac issues, hypotension suggests potential shock or inadequate blood flow, and skin discoloration could relate to various systemic problems, but they do not directly reflect the respiratory function or distress like nasal flaring does.