In the medical field, they often say that “children are not just small adults.” This is the golden rule of Pediatric Nursing. From the unique way a child’s body responds to infection to the delicate communication required to comfort a frightened toddler, this specialty demands a blend of scientific precision and deep empathy.
Below is the exam paper download link
Past Paper On Pediatric Nursing For Revision
Above is the exam paper download link
As you prepare for your final assessments, whether at a national polytechnic or a medical training college, practicing with real-world scenarios is vital. To kickstart your brain, we have put together a series of high-yield questions and answers that frequently appear in pediatric nursing exams. Once you’ve reviewed these, follow the link at the bottom of the page to download the complete past paper for your revision.
Section 1: Neonatal and Infant Care
Question 1: What is the significance of the APGAR score, and when is it recorded? The APGAR score is a quick assessment of a newborn’s physical condition to determine if they need immediate medical or emergency care. It is recorded at 1 minute and 5 minutes after birth. It evaluates five criteria: Appearance (skin color), Pulse (heart rate), Grimace (reflex irritability), Activity (muscle tone), and Respiration. A score of 7 or above is generally considered a sign of a healthy baby.
Question 2: Why is the “Moro Reflex” a key indicator of neurological health in infants? The Moro reflex, or startle reflex, occurs when an infant feels like they are falling. They will suddenly spread their arms and then pull them back in. If this reflex is absent or asymmetrical, it could indicate a birth injury, such as a fractured clavicle or a serious neurological issue. Most infants outgrow this reflex by 4 to 6 months of age.
Question 3: How should a nurse advise a mother regarding “Exclusive Breastfeeding”? Exclusive breastfeeding means the infant receives only breast milk—no water, other liquids, or solids—for the first six months of life. This provides the perfect balance of nutrients and essential antibodies that protect the child from common childhood illnesses like diarrhea and pneumonia.
Section 2: Growth and Development
Question 4: What are the “Red Flags” in a child’s developmental milestones? Developmental milestones are behaviors or physical skills seen in infants and children as they grow. A nurse should be concerned if a child is not meeting major milestones, such as sitting up by 9 months, walking by 18 months, or using simple two-word phrases by age two. Early intervention is key to managing developmental delays.
Question 5: How does a nurse assess a child’s pain level using the “Wong-Baker FACES” scale? Since young children often lack the vocabulary to describe their pain, we use the FACES scale. It features a series of faces ranging from a happy face (0 – No hurt) to a crying face (10 – Hurts worst). The child points to the face that best describes how they feel, allowing the nurse to provide appropriate pain management.
Section 3: Management of Childhood Illnesses
Question 6: What is the primary nursing concern for a child with severe Dehydration due to Gastroenteritis? The priority is the restoration of fluid and electrolyte balance. In an exam, you should prioritize Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) for mild to moderate cases. However, if the child is lethargic or unable to drink, IV fluids become the immediate priority to prevent hypovolemic shock.
Question 7: How do we identify the classic signs of Croup in a pediatric patient? Croup is characterized by a “barking” cough that sounds like a seal, inspiratory stridor (a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing in), and hoarseness. It is often worse at night. Nursing care includes keeping the child calm (crying worsens the airway obstruction) and providing humidified air or cool mist.
Boost Your Exam Performance
Pediatric nursing exams often focus on safety, growth charts, and the correct calculation of pediatric dosages. Reading through these Q&As helps you sharpen your critical thinking, but nothing beats sitting down with a timer and a full past paper to simulate the real exam environment.
This resource is tailored for students across Kenya looking to excel in their nursing qualifications.
Stay dedicated to your studies, keep your clinical skills sharp, and remember that you are training to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Good luck!
Last updated on: March 17, 2026