CPEN study plan

Differentiate the four shock states (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, obstructive) using CO/CI, SVR, preload, and mixed venous oxygen saturation values, and name the first-line vasoactive agent for each.

Interpret 10 rhythm strips covering SVT, stable and unstable VT, VF, asystole, sinus bradycardia, complete heart block, atrial flutter, and junctional rhythm, and state whether each is treated with synchronized cardioversion, defibrillation, pacing, or medication.

Calculate MAP, cardiac index, and SVR from supplied hemodynamic numbers and identify which value drives the next nursing action.

Compare left-to-right versus right-to-left congenital heart defects, listing expected findings and which lesions are ductal-dependent and require prostaglandin E1.

Sequence nursing priorities for acute decompensated heart failure, including inotrope and diuretic titration parameters and signs of overdiuresis.

Apply the DOPE framework (displacement, obstruction, pneumothorax, equipment failure) to a patient deteriorating on mechanical ventilation and order the assessment steps.

Compare assist-control, SIMV, pressure support, and pressure-regulated volume control modes and select initial settings for a child with ARDS.

Interpret 20 arterial blood gas values for acid-base status and compensation and state one intervention for each abnormal result.

Distinguish croup, epiglottitis, bronchiolitis, and asthma exacerbation by age, onset, auscultation findings, and first-line intervention.

Plan care for status asthmaticus, including continuous albuterol, ipratropium, corticosteroid timing, and magnesium sulfate escalation criteria.

Calculate cerebral perfusion pressure from MAP minus ICP and state the ICP threshold that triggers each tier of intervention.

Interpret Glasgow Coma Scale scores, pupil findings, and brainstem reflexes to identify a patient who is deteriorating and name the immediate action.

Differentiate meningitis from encephalitis and select the isolation, antibiotic timing, and lumbar puncture sequencing each requires.

Manage an external ventricular drain by demonstrating leveling and zeroing at the tragus, identifying overdrainage, and recognizing infection.

Classify seizure types and order the medication sequence for status epilepticus from benzodiazepine through third-line agents, including post-ictal priorities.

Distinguish SIADH from cerebral salt wasting after brain injury using sodium, urine output, and volume status, and match each to its treatment.

Prioritize care for upper versus lower gastrointestinal bleeding, including transfusion triggers, vasoactive/octreotide therapy, and endoscopy timing.

Manage hepatic failure and encephalopathy by titrating lactulose to stool goals, tracking ammonia, and anticipating coagulopathy and variceal bleeding.

Differentiate pyloric stenosis, intussusception, malrotation with volvulus, and Hirschsprung disease by age at presentation, hallmark findings, and definitive intervention.

Compare enteral versus parenteral nutrition, including TPN line management, weaning, and refeeding syndrome monitoring.

Differentiate prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal acute kidney injury using urine indices and volume status, and select the corresponding first intervention.

Apply the AEIOU indications for emergent dialysis and compare nursing priorities for hemodialysis versus peritoneal dialysis.

Contrast nephrotic and nephritic syndrome by proteinuria, edema, blood pressure, and complement findings, and plan family education for each.

Sequence postoperative care for hypospadias repair, cryptorchidism, and vesicoureteral reflux, including catheter and stent precautions.

Assess neurovascular status using the six Ps, differentiate compartment syndrome from cast pressure, and describe traction types with correct weight and pulley setup.

Calculate total body surface area burned with the Rule of Nines and compute Parkland/Baxter fluid rates for 10 pediatric and adult burn scenarios.

Classify burns by depth and stage and differentiate the emergent, acute, and rehabilitation phases by fluid, wound, and rehabilitation priorities.

Compare sickle cell vaso-occlusive crisis, acute chest syndrome, and splenic sequestration by findings and immediate intervention, including transfusion thresholds.

Manage hemophilia bleeding with factor replacement timing and apply bleeding precautions such as avoiding intramuscular injections and NSAIDs.

Respond to oncologic emergencies: febrile neutropenia, tumor lysis syndrome, and vesicant extravasation, and apply safe chemotherapy handling and spill procedures.

Differentiate diabetic ketoacidosis from hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state by glucose, ketones, osmolality, and anion gap, and titrate fluids and insulin accordingly.

Monitor for and intervene on cerebral edema during pediatric DKA resuscitation using neurologic and osmolality triggers.

Distinguish diabetes insipidus from SIADH using urine output, urine specific gravity, and serum sodium, and state the treatment for each.

Manage thyroid storm and myxedema coma by prioritizing supportive care, beta blockade, thionamide, and iodine timing.

Differentiate delirium, dementia, and depression, apply a withdrawal scale such as CIWA or COWS, and conduct a suicide-risk screening conversation with defined escalation steps.

Complete two 75-question timed simulated exams spanning all 10 domains and map each missed item back to its domain.

Re-drill the two lowest-scoring domains from the running error log until practice sets reach 85% or higher.

Resolve 25 prioritization and delegation items by ranking actions, justifying delegation to assistive personnel, and identifying when to escalate.

Assemble a one-page high-yield rapid-review sheet covering the 10 most time-critical emergencies from each domain.