A child is found unconscious and needs to be measured using a Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape to determine appropriate equipment sizing and resuscitation medication dosages. How should the tape be positioned and measured?

Appeared in: NORCET-11 Prelims

Explanation

Broselow tape is placed with the red portion at the top of the head and extended down to the heels.
This method links the child's length to a color zone for weight-based equipment and medication dosing.
Child must be lying supine for accurate measurement.
Measuring from head to heel is the standardized and validated approach.

Option B: Measuring from the toes up to the heels is not the correct method; the tape is always aligned from the head down to the heels.
Option C: Laying the tape beside the child's body from toes to head is not the recommended approach; the tape should be aligned from head to heels.
Option D: Measuring arm span is not a validated method for Broselow tape; it is not used for equipment or drug dosing in emergencies.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Correct positioning and measurement technique for Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate Broselow tape measurement ensures correct equipment and medication dosing in pediatric emergencies.
Prevents under- or overdosing, which can be life-threatening in children.
What if? If the tape is used incorrectly (e.g., from toes to head), the child may receive the wrong size equipment or incorrect drug dose, increasing risk of harm.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the purpose of the Broselow tape (emergency pediatric sizing and dosing).
Recall the standard method: child supine, tape from head to heels.
Eliminate options that mention toes-to-head or arm span.
Choose the option that matches the correct, standardized procedure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Correct positioning and measurement technique for Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape
Stem keywords: child, unconscious, Broselow Pediatric Emergency Tape, equipment sizing, resuscitation medication dosages
Lead-in keywords: How should the tape be positioned and measured
Clinical cues: child is unconscious
Clinical cues: emergency equipment and medication dosing

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 8-10

Practise the full NORCET-11 Prelims

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.