Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

When assessing a child diagnosed with asthma, which sign is the nurse most likely to observe?

1. Severe chest pain and shortness of breath

2. Illness patterns that include consistent coughing during the early afternoon

3. Frequent nasal congestion throughout the day

4. Complaints of dizziness after physical activity

The correct answer is: Illness patterns that include consistent coughing during the early afternoon

When assessing a child diagnosed with asthma, observing consistent coughing during specific times, such as the early afternoon, is most aligned with the syndrome's characteristic symptoms. Children with asthma often exhibit a cough that can be triggered by various factors, including exercise, allergens, or changes in environment. Coughing is a common symptom in asthma, particularly when it occurs after exposure to triggers, and can serve as a warning sign indicating airway inflammation or constriction. While severe chest pain and shortness of breath could be present during an acute asthma exacerbation, they are not as consistently observed in all children with asthma, especially in the absence of severe attacks. Frequent nasal congestion could indicate another underlying condition such as allergic rhinitis rather than asthma directly. Complaints of dizziness after physical activity can occur but are not a primary indicator of asthma itself; they may relate more to overall fitness levels or other health issues. Thus, consistent coughing during specific times, especially when linked to known asthma triggers, is an important clinical finding in the assessment of a child with asthma.