Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

In children diagnosed with asthma, which symptom is indicative of a potential exacerbation?

1. Consistent calmness during physical exertion

2. Persistent feeling of dizziness when standing

3. Difficulty sleeping due to frequent coughing

4. Stable condition that seems unaffected by triggers

The correct answer is: Difficulty sleeping due to frequent coughing

The symptom of difficulty sleeping due to frequent coughing is indicative of a potential asthma exacerbation because it suggests that the child's asthma is not well-controlled. Coughing, especially that which disrupts sleep, can indicate airway inflammation or bronchoconstriction, both of which are hallmarks of an asthma episode. In children with asthma, nighttime cough that affects sleep is a common signal that their asthma may be worsening or that they are experiencing an exacerbation. Coughing, particularly when it occurs at night or upon exertion, is associated with the underlying pathophysiology of asthma, where inflammation and increased mucus production lead to airway obstruction. This can hinder the child's ability to breathe freely, prompting cough as a reflex action to try to clear the airways. Monitoring for such symptoms is crucial as they can warrant preemptive treatment measures to control the exacerbation and prevent further respiratory distress. The other options do not demonstrate typical signs of an acute asthma exacerbation. For instance, consistent calmness during physical exertion suggests effective asthma management, while a stable condition unaffected by triggers indicates that asthma is not currently presenting as a problem. A persistent feeling of dizziness when standing could suggest other health issues unrelated to asthma.