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In cystic fibrosis, children often experience symptoms related to respiratory and gastrointestinal issues due to thick, sticky mucus that affects various organ systems. Pulmonary obstruction occurs as mucus clogs the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, infections, and inflammation. Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is also common as the condition progresses and lung function declines.

Malnutrition due to poor absorption is a significant concern in cystic fibrosis because the thick mucus can obstruct the pancreas, reducing the production of digestive enzymes needed for nutrient absorption. This results in malabsorption, causing children to struggle with weight gain and growth despite potentially having a good appetite.

In contrast, having an increased appetite is not a typical symptom associated with cystic fibrosis. While children may eat well, their bodies are often unable to effectively absorb the nutrients from the food due to the complications of the disease. Thus, the idea that an increased appetite is a symptom reflects a misunderstanding of the impact of cystic fibrosis on growth and nutrition, making it the correct answer as the symptom not typically associated with the condition.