Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 89%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A child who has a suspected diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.A nurse is caring for a child who has a suspected diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. Which of the following diagnostic tests will confirm the diagnosis?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Sweat chloride test. Cystic fibrosis is confirmed by elevated sweat chloride levels, as it is a hallmark of the disease. This test measures the amount of salt in the sweat, which is typically higher in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to defective chloride channels. A stool fat content analysis (A) may help assess pancreatic insufficiency but does not confirm cystic fibrosis. Pulmonary function tests (B) are useful in evaluating lung function but do not confirm the diagnosis. A sputum culture (D) may show respiratory infections common in cystic fibrosis but does not confirm the disease.