PEDs: Nursing Care of the Child with a Cardiovascular Disorder

The infant has been hospitalized and develops hypercyanosis. The physician has ordered the nurse to administer 0.1 mg of morphine sulfate per every kilogram of the infant's body weight. The infant weighs 15.2 pounds. Calculate the infant's morphine sulfate dose. Round your answer to the nearest tenth. _____mg

0.7 Correct Explanation: The infant weighs 15.2 pounds (2.2 pounds = 1 kg.) 15.2 pounds x 1 kg/2.2 pounds = 6.818 kg The infant weighs 6.818 kg. For each kilogram of body weight, the infant should receive 0.1 mg of morphine sulfate. 6.818 kg x 0.1 mg/1 kg = 0.6818 mg Rounded to the tenth place = 0.7 mg The infant will receive 0.7 mg of morphine sulfate.

A child is having surgery for a congenital heart defect. The parent asks about their 1-year-old's growth and developmental delays and what they can expect after surgery. What is the best response by the nurse? a) "After surgery, most children will catch up." b) "You can expect to continue to see delays." c) "This was caused by the lack of oxygen and it is usually permanent." d) "As long as you decrease external stimuli, the child should catch up."

"After surgery, most children will catch up." Correct Explanation: A child with a congenital heart defect who has growth and developmental delays will usually catch up after the defect is fixed. There is no way of predicting exactly what each child will do and it is not appropriate to tell a parent that these delays are permanent when that is unknown until the defect is corrected by surgery.

A child is having surgery for a congenital heart defect. The parent asks about their 1-year-old's growth and developmental delays and what they can expect after surgery. What is the best response by the nurse? a) "You can expect to continue to see delays." b) "As long as you decrease external stimuli, the child should catch up." c) "This was caused by the lack of oxygen and it is usually permanent." d) "After surgery, most children will catch up."

"After surgery, most children will catch up." Correct Explanation: A child with a congenital heart defect who has growth and developmental delays will usually catch up after the defect is fixed. There is no way of predicting exactly what each child will do and it is not appropriate to tell a parent that these delays are permanent when that is unknown until the defect is corrected by surgery.

The nurse is teaching an inservice program to a group of nurses on the topic of children diagnosed with rheumatic fever. The nurses in the group make the following statements. Which statement is most accurate regarding the diagnosis of rheumatic fever? a) "The onset and progression of this disorder is rapid." b) "This disorder is caused by genetic factors." c) "Being up to date on immunizations is the best way to prevent this disorder." d) "Children who have this diagnosis may have had strep throat."

"Children who have this diagnosis may have had strep throat." Correct Explanation: Rheumatic fever is precipitated by a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat, tonsillitis, scarlet fever, or pharyngitis, which may be undiagnosed or untreated. Rheumatic fever is a chronic disease of childhood, affecting the connective tissue of the heart, joints, lungs, and brain. There is no immunization to prevent rheumatic fever. The onset of rheumatic fever is often slow and subtle.

You take an infant's apical pulse before administering digoxin. What is the usually accepted level of pulse rate considered safe for administering digoxin to an 8-month-old infant? a) 150 beats per minute b) 100 beats per minute c) 80 beats per minute d) 60 beats per minute

100 beats per minute Explanation: Because digoxin slows the heart rate, it is important that it is not already beating at a slow rate before administration.

A nurse is taking the history of a 4-year-old boy who will undergo a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following statements by his mother may necessitate rescheduling of the procedure? a) "He is very scared and nervous about the procedure." b) "He is not taking any medication." c) "He is allergic to iodine and shellfish." d) "He seems listless and slightly warm."

"He seems listless and slightly warm." Correct Explanation: Fever and other signs and symptoms of infection may necessitate rescheduling the procedure. Although information about allergies is important, not all contrast media contain iodine as a base. The nurse should address the child's fears in a developmentally appropriate way, but fear of the procedure does not warrant rescheduling. Not using any medication would not be a reason for rescheduling the procedure.

The nurse is providing child and family education prior to discharge following a cardiac catheterization. The nurse is teaching about signs and symptoms of complications. Which statement by the mother indicates a need for further teaching? a) "We need to watch for changes in skin color or difficulty breathing." b) "Strenuous activity should be limited for the next 3 days." c) "We need to avoid a tub bath for the next 3 days." d) "The feeling of the heart skipping a beat is common."

"The feeling of the heart skipping a beat is common." Explanation: Reports of heart "fluttering" or "skipping a beat" should be reported to the doctor as this can be a sign of a complication. This statement is appropriate because tub baths should be avoided for about 3 days. This statement is appropriate because strenuous activity is limited for about 3 days. Changes in skin color or difficulty breathing indicate potential complications that need to be reported.

A nurse is teaching the parents of a child diagnosed with rheumatic fever about prescribed drug therapy. Which statement would indicate to the nurse that additional teaching is needed? a) "We can stop the penicillin when her symptoms disappear." b) "She needs to take the drug for the full 14 days." c) "If she needs dental surgery, we might need additional medication." d) "To prevent another episode, she'll need preventive antibiotic therapy for at least 5 years."

"We can stop the penicillin when her symptoms disappear." Correct Explanation: For a child with rheumatic fever, drug therapy must be given for the full 10 to 14 days to ensure complete eradication of the infection. The drug must not be stopped when the signs and symptoms disappear. To prevent recurrent attacks, prophylactic antibiotic therapy is prescribed for at least 5 years or until the child is 18 years old. Additional prophylactic therapy should be instituted when dental or tonsillar surgery is planned.

A nurse is examining a 10-year-old girl who has a heart murmur. On auscultation, the nurse finds that the murmur occurs only during systole, is short, and sounds soft and musical. When she has the girl stand, she can no longer hear the murmur on auscultation. Which of the following should the nurse say to the girl's mother in response to these findings? a) Not say anything, as the girl has an insignificant heart murmur and there is no reason to alarm the mother or her. b) "Your daughter has an organic heart murmur, which indicates that she has some degree of heart disease. The doctor will provide a referral to a good cardiologist." c) "Your daughter has a functional heart murmur; I recommend that you limit her physical activity so that her heart rate is not elevated for long periods of time." d) "Your daughter has an innocent heart murmur, which is nothing to worry about."

"Your daughter has an innocent heart murmur, which is nothing to worry about." Correct Explanation: The symptoms described indicate an innocent heart murmur. Although innocent murmurs are of no consequence, parents need to be told when their child has one because this finding will undoubtedly be discovered again at a future health assessment or during a febrile illness, anxiety, or pregnancy. Activities need not be restricted when a child has an innocent murmur and the child requires no more frequent health appraisals than other children. If a murmur is present as the result of heart disease or a congenital disorder, it is an organic heart murmur.

The nurse is assessing the blood pressure of a toddler. Which finding would the nurse document as a normal finding? a) 100/60 mm Hg b) 110/60 mm Hg c) 90/64 mm Hg d) 80/40 mm Hg

90/64 mm Hg Explanation: The toddler's or preschooler's blood pressure averages 80 to 100/64 mm Hg. The normal infant's blood pressure is about 80/40 mm Hg. The school-age child's blood pressure averages 94 to 112/56 mm Hg. An adolescent's blood pressure averages 100 to 120/50 to 70 mm Hg.

The nurse is explaining possible side effects of corticosteroids to the caregiver of a child diagnosed with rheumatic fever. The caregiver comments, "I don't understand what hirsutism means." The nurse would be correct in explaining that hirsutism is which of the following? a) Facial grimaces b) Repetitive movements c) A "moon face" appearance d) Abnormal hair growth

Abnormal hair growth Correct Explanation: The child whose pain is not con trolled with salicylates may be ad ministered corticosteroids. Side effects such as hirsutism (abnormal hair growth) and "moon face" may be noted. Facial grimaces and repetitive involuntary movements are symptoms of chorea.

Which of the following nursing diagnoses would best apply to a child with rheumatic fever? a) Disturbed sleep pattern related to hyperexcitability b) Activity intolerance related to inability of heart to sustain extra workload

Activity intolerance related to inability of heart to sustain extra workload Explanation: Children with rheumatic fever need to reduce activity to relieve stress during the course of the illness.

A nurse is caring for an infant who is experiencing heart failure. Which of the following would be the most appropriate care for this infant? a) Provide large, less frequent feedings. b) Administer oxygen. c) Administer antidiuretic. d) Restrict fluids.

Administer oxygen. Explanation: If a child is experiencing heart failure, the infant will need oxygen. One of the medications the infant would be on is a diuretic. An infant with heart failure will need smaller, more frequent feedings to conserve energy for feeding. Infants are not usually put on fluid restriction.

The nurse is caring for a 10-year-old girl with a suspected heart arrhythmia. The nurse would expect to prepare the child for which test to identify and quantitate the arrhythmia? a) Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring b) Arteriogram c) Echocardiogram d) Chest radiograph

Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring Correct Explanation: Ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring is indicated to identify and quantitate arrhythmias in a 24-hour period during normal daily activities. An echocardiogram is done to provide a specific diagnosis of structural defects, to determine hemodynamics, and to detect valvular defects. A chest radiograph is indicated to detect abnormalities of structures within the chest. An arteriogram is ordered to observe blood flow to parts of the body and detect lesions and confirm a diagnosis.

Coarctation of the aorta demonstrates few symptoms in newborns. Which of the following is an important assessment to make on all newborns to help reveal this condition? a) Auscultating for a cardiac murmur b) Recording an upper extremity blood pressure c) Assessing for the presence of femoral pulses d) Observing for excessive crying

Assessing for the presence of femoral pulses Correct Explanation: Infants with a narrowing (coarctation) of the aorta have decreased pressure in the lower extremities or absence of femoral pulses.

A group of nurses is reviewing the cardiovascular system and its function. Which of the following statements is the most accurate regarding the cardiovascular system in the child? a) The heart rate of the child decreases if the child has a fever. b) At birth the right and left ventricle are about the same size. c) The heart matures and functions like an adult's between 12 and 15 years of age. d) Between the ages of 5 and 6 the left ventricle grows to about two times the size of the right.

At birth the right and left ventricle are about the same size. Correct Explanation: At birth, both the right and left ventricles are about the same size, but by a few months of age, the left ventricle is about two times the size of the right. If the infant has a fever, respiratory distress, or any increased need for oxygen, the pulse rate goes up to increase the cardiac output. Although the size is smaller, by the time the child is 5 years old, the heart has matured, developed, and functions just as the adult's heart.

A 5-year-old is being prepared for diagnostic cardiac catheterization, in which the catheter will be inserted in the right femoral vein. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take to prevent infection? a) Keep the child NPO for 2 to 4 hours before the procedure b) Record pedal pulses c) Apply EMLA cream to the catheter insertion site d) Avoid drawing a blood specimen from the right femoral vein before the procedure

Avoid drawing a blood specimen from the right femoral vein before the procedure Correct Explanation: Because the vessel site chosen for catheterization must not be infected at the time of catheterization (or obscured by a hematoma), never draw blood specimens from the projected catheterization entry site before the procedure (generally a femoral vein). The other interventions listed are performed for reasons other than prevention of infection. Children scheduled for the procedure are usually kept NPO for 2 to 4 hours beforehand to reduce the danger of vomiting and aspiration during the procedure. Be certain to record pedal pulses for a baseline assessment. The site for catheter insertion is locally anesthetized with EMLA cream or intradermal lidocaine.

Which of the following would be included in the care of an infant in heart failure? a) Maintain child in the supine position. b) Encourage larger, less frequent feedings. c) Begin formulas with increased calories. d) Administer digoxin even if the infant is vomiting.

Begin formulas with increased calories. Correct Explanation: Infants with heart failure need increased calories for growth. The infants are typically given smaller, more frequent feedings to decrease the amount given and to help conserve energy for feeding. They often times are given a higher-calorie formula. The infant should be placed in an upright position or in a car seat to increase oxygenation. The infant should not have any pressure on the diaphragm while in this position. Vomiting is a sign of digoxin toxicity and this should be considered before administering.

The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of several children who have come to the clinic for evaluation. Which child would the nurse identify as having the least risk for hyperlipidemia? a) Child B with a total cholesterol level of 175 mg/dL and LDL of 105 mg/dL. b) Child C with a total cholesterol level of 190 mg/dL and LDL of 125 mg/dL. c) Child A with a total cholesterol of 150 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) of 80 mg/dL. d) Child D with a total cholesterol level of 220 mg/dL and LDL of 138 mg/dL.

Child A with a total cholesterol of 150 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) of 80 mg/dL. Explanation: Total cholesterol levels below 170 mg/dL and LDL levels less than 100 mg/dL are considered within the acceptable range. Total cholesterol levels between 170 and 199 mg/dL and LDL levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are considered borderline. Total cholesterol levels between 170 and 199 mg/dL and LDL levels between 100 and 129 mg/dL are considered borderline. Total cholesterol levels greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL and LDL levels greater than or equal to 130 mg/dL are considered elevated and place this child at greatest risk.

The nurse is collecting data on a child being evaluated for rheumatic fever. The caregiver reports that over the past several weeks she has noticed that the child seems to have lack of coordination. In addition she reports the child has had facial grimaces and repetitive involuntary movements. The signs the caregiver reports indicate the child has which of the following? a) Chorea b) Arthralgia c) Carditis d) Polyarthritis

Chorea Correct Explanation: Chorea is a disorder characterized by emotional instability, purposeless movements, and muscular weakness. The onset of chorea is gradual, with increasing incoordination, facial grimaces, and repetitive involuntary movements.

When caring for a child that has just had a cardiac catheterization, which of the following would indicate a sign of hypotension? a) Decreased heart rate and dizziness b) Syncope and tachypnea c) Diaphoresis and tachycardia d) Cold clammy skin and increased heart rate

Cold clammy skin and increased heart rate Explanation: Cold, clammy skin, increased heart rate, and dizziness are signs of hypotension that may be a complication after a cardiac catheterization. Decreased heart rate, syncope, and tachypnea would also be very concerning, but not necessarily a sign of hypotension.

The nurse is performing an ECG on a 12-year-old boy. On completion, she notices that boy's P-R interval is lengthened. Which of the following does this finding indicate? a) Difficulty with coordination between the SA and AV nodes (first-degree heart block) b) Ventricular hypertrophy c) Hypertrophied atria d) Ventricles not fully contracting (pericarditis)

Difficulty with coordination between the SA and AV nodes (first-degree heart block) Explanation: On an ECG tracing, a longer-than-usual P wave suggests the atria are hypertrophied making it take longer than usual for the electrical conduction to spread over the atria. A lengthened P-R interval suggests there is a difficulty with coordination between the SA and AV nodes (first-degree heart block). A heightened R wave indicates ventricular hypertrophy is present. An R wave which is decreased in height suggests the ventricles are not contracting fully, as happens if they are surrounded by fluid (pericarditis). Elongation of the T wave occurs in hyperkalemia; depression of the T wave is associated with anoxia; depression of the ST segment is associated with abnormal calcium levels.

The nurse is caring for a 14-year-old girl with atrial fibrillation. Which medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed? a) Indomethacin b) Digoxin c) Alprostadil d) Furosemide

Digoxin Correct Explanation: Digoxin is indicated for atrial fibrillation. It increases the contractility of the heart muscle by decreasing conduction and increasing force. Alprostadil is indicated for temporary maintenance of ductus arteriosus patency in infants with ductal-dependent congenital heart defects. Furosemide is used for the management of edema associated with heart failure. Indomethacin is used to close a patent ductus arteriosus.

The nurse is administering medications to the child with congestive heart failure. Large doses of which of the following medications are used initially in the treatment of CHF to attain a therapeutic level? a) Ferrous sulfate b) Digoxin (Lanoxin) c) Furosemide (Lasix) d) Albuterol sulfate

Digoxin (Lanoxin) Correct Explanation: The use of large doses of digoxin, at the beginning of therapy, to build up the blood levels of the drug to a therapeutic level is known as digitalization.

The nurse is collecting data on a 5 year old child admitted with the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Which of the following clinical manifestations would likely have been noted in the child with this diagnosis? a) Clubbing of the fingers b) Scissoring of the legs with toes pointed down c) Failure to gain weight d) Jerking movements of the arms and legs

Failure to gain weight Explanation: In infants and older children, one of the first signs of CHF is tachycardia. Other signs of CHF often seen in the older child include failure to gain weight, weakness, fatigue, restlessness, irritability, and a pale, mottled, or cyanotic color. Rapid respirations or tachypnea, dyspnea, and coughing with bloody sputum also are seen. Edema and enlargement of the liver and heart may be present. Jerking movements indicate seizure activity. Scissoring of the legs is seen in cerebral palsy, and clubbing of the fingers is seen in cystic fibrosis.

Tetralogy of Fallot consists of the following four anomalies: aortic stenosis, atrial septal defect, dextroposition (overriding) of the aorta, and hypertrophy of the left ventricle. a) False b) True

False Correct Explanation: Tetralogy of Fallot consists of four anomalies: pulmonary stenosis, ventricular septal defect (usually large), dextroposition (overriding) of the aorta, and hypertrophy of the right ventricle.

After assessing a child, the nurse suspects coarctation of the aorta based on which of the following? a) Hepatomegaly b) Narrow pulse c) Femoral pulse weaker than brachial pulse d) Bounding pulse

Femoral pulse weaker than brachial pulse Explanation: A femoral pulse that is weak or absent in comparison to the brachial pulse is associated with coarctation of the aorta. Bounding pulse is characteristic of patent ductus arteriosus or aortic regurgitation. A narrow or thread pulse is associated with heart failure or severe aortic stenosis. Hepatomegaly is a sign of right-sided heart failure.

A school nurse is caring for a child with a severe sore throat and fever. Which of the following would be the best recommendation by the nurse to the parent? a) Have the child drink fluids that contain electrolytes. b) Have the child go to the emergency room. c) Give acetaminophen for the fever and pain, and have the child rest. d) Have the child be seen by the primary care provider.

Have the child be seen by the primary care provider. Correct Explanation: Children with sore throats and fevers should be seen by their primary care provider to rule out strep throat. This is extremely important due to the fact they may contract an acquired heart disease called rheumatic fever. Taking acetaminophen, resting, and drinking fluids are all good recommendations, but the best recommendation is to see the provider. Going to the emergency room is not necessary at this time.

The nurse is performing echocardiography on a newborn who is suspected of having a congenital heart defect. The child's mother is concerned about the safety of using this on a newborn and wants to know how this technology works. The nurse assures her that this technology is very safe and may be repeated frequently without added risk. Which of the following should the nurse mention in explaining how this diagnostic test works? a) A radioactive substance is injected intravenously into the bloodstream and is traced and recorded on video b) High-frequency sound waves are directed toward the heart c) A microphone is placed on the child's chest to record heart sounds and translate them into electrical energy d) X-rays are directed toward the heart

High-frequency sound waves are directed toward the heart Correct Explanation: Echocardiography, or ultrasound cardiography, has become the primary diagnostic test for congenital heart disease. For this, high-frequency sound waves, directed toward the heart, are used to locate and study the movement and dimensions of cardiac structures, such as the size of chambers, thickness of walls, relationship of major vessels to chambers, and the thickness, motion, and pressure gradients of valves. You can remind parents echocardiography does not use x-rays so it can be repeated at frequent intervals without exposing their child to the possible risk of radiation. The other answers refer to other types of diagnostic tests, including X-ray studies, radioangiocardiography, and phonocardiography.

A nurse is reviewing blood work on a patient with a cyanotic heart defect. Which of the following results would most likely be seen in a patient experiencing polycythemia? a) Increased WBC b) Increased RBC c) Decreased RBC d) Decreased WBC

Increased RBC Correct Explanation: Polycythemia can occur in patients with a cyanotic heart defect. The body tries to compensate for having low oxygen levels and produces more red blood cells (RBCs). This would cause an increased result on the lab tests. This problem does not affect the white blood cells (WBCs).

An 8-month-old has a ventricular septal defect. Which nursing diagnosis below would best apply? a) Impaired skin integrity related to poor peripheral circulation b) Ineffective tissue perfusion related to inefficiency of the heart as a pump c) Ineffective airway clearance related to altered pulmonary status d) Impaired gas exchange related to a right-to-left shunt

Ineffective tissue perfusion related to inefficiency of the heart as a pump Correct Explanation: A ventriculoseptal defect permits blood to flow across a septum, creating an ineffective pump.

A 6-year-old girl is diagnosed with pulmonary stenosis. The mother asks the nurse what the likely treatment for this condition will involve. The nurse should tell the mother which of the following? a) No treatment is necessary, as the defect will resolve spontaneously b) Surgical closure by ductal ligation c) Insertion of a catheter with an uninflated balloon tip into the affected valve, followed by inflation of the balloon to break up adhesions d) Insertion of Dacron-coated stainless-steel coils by interventional cardiac catheterization

Insertion of a catheter with an uninflated balloon tip into the affected valve, followed by inflation of the balloon to break up adhesions Correct Explanation: Balloon angioplasty by way of cardiac catheterization is the procedure of choice for pulmonary stenosis. With this procedure, a catheter with an uninflated balloon at its tip is inserted and passed through the heart into the stenosed valve. As the balloon is inflated, it breaks valve adhesions and relieves the stenosis. The other answers refer to interventions related to patent ductus arteriosus, not pulmonary stenosis.

An infant with poor feeding is suspected of having a congenital heart defect. The parents are asking why a chest x-ray is necessary in their infant. Which of the following is the best response from the nurse? a) It will show if blood is being shunted. b) This image will clarify the structures within the heart. c) It will determine if the heart is enlarged. d) It will determine disturbances in heart conduction.

It will determine if the heart is enlarged. Correct Explanation: Chest x-rays are performed to see if the heart is enlarged. This will determine if the heart muscle is increasing in size. Disturbances in heart conduction are detected by an EKG. Visualizing where blood is being shunted is through the echocardiogram. The image used to clarify the structures of the heart is the MRI.

When caring for a child with Kawasaki Disease, the nurse would know which of the following? a) Joint pain is a permanent problem. b) Steroid creams are used for the hand peeling. c) Management includes administration of aspirin and IVIG. d) Antibiotics should be administered exactly every 8 hours by IV.

Management includes administration of aspirin and IVIG. Correct Explanation: Kawasaki disease is managed with IVIG and aspirin to prevent cardiac complications. Joint pain is not necessarily a permanent problem associated with Kawasaki disease. Antibiotics and steroid creams are not used for this disorder.

A nurse is administering digoxin to a 3-year-old. Which of the following would be a reason to hold the dose of digoxin? a) Ataxia b) Fever and tinnitus c) Nausea and vomiting d) Hypertension

Nausea and vomiting Explanation: Nausea and vomiting are signs of digoxin toxicity. The other symptoms listed here are not necessarily signs of a digoxin toxicity.

A nurse suspects a child is experiencing cardiac tamponade after heart surgery. Which of the following would be the priority nursing intervention? a) Observe vitals every two hours. b) Elevate the head of the bed. c) Notify the doctor immediately. d) Administer epinephrine.

Notify the doctor immediately. Correct Explanation: The nurse would notify the doctor immediately. Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency and should be addressed. The child can die if intervention is postponed. It would not be appropriate to perform any interventions until confirming that this is the actual diagnosis.

A client's newborn is diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot. When explaining this condition to the client, which of the following defects would the nurse's description include? a) Atrial septal defect b) Overriding of the aorta c) Stenosis of the aorta d) Left ventricular hypertrophy

Overriding of the aorta Explanation: One of the components in the Tetralogy of Fallot is overriding of the aorta. Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart disease with 4 components. The defects in the Tetralogy of Fallot include ventricular septal defect, overriding of the aorta, pulmonary stenosis, and right ventricular hypertrophy. Atrial septal defect, stenosis of the aorta and left ventricular hypertrophy are not components of Tetralogy of Fallot.

A nurse is caring for a child with Kawasaki disease. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect to see? a) Irritability and dry mucous membranes b) Decreased heart rate and impalpable pulse c) Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate d) Peeling hands and feet and fever

Peeling hands and feet and fever Explanation: One of the signs of Kawasaki disease is the peeling hands and feet. The other symptoms are not necessarily characteristic of Kawasaki disease.

A child is diagnosed with tetralogy of Fallot and during a temper tantrum turns blue. Which of the following would the nurse do first? a) Assess for an increased respiratory rate. b) Place child in the knee-to-chest position. c) Assess for an irregular heart rate. d) Explain to the child the need to calm down since it is affecting the heart.

Place child in the knee-to-chest position. Correct Explanation: Place child in the knee-to-chest position. This position is the first priority of the child with tetralogy of Fallot. Cyanosis is caused by the heart defect and placing the child in this position will decrease the cyanosis.

A nurse is giving discharge instructions to the parents of a newborn with a congenital heart disorder. Which of the following should the nurse instruct the parents to do in the event that the child becomes cyanotic? a) Perform hands-on CPR b) Administer prescribed amoxicillin c) Place him in a knee-chest position d) Administer low-dose aspirin

Place him in a knee-chest position Explanation: Before parents leave the hospital with a newborn who has a congenital heart disorder, be certain they have the name and number of the health professional to call if they have a question about their infant's health. Review with them the steps to take if their child should become cyanotic, such as placing the child in a knee-chest position. "Hands on" CPR is not recommended for children as it is for adults. Remind parents that children with many types of congenital heart disorders or rheumatic fever need prophylactic low-dose aspirin therapy to avoid blood clotting; although becoming a controversial practice, they may be prescribed antibiotic therapy such as oral amoxicillin before oral surgery.

The nurse is caring for a 6-year-old child with a congenital heart defect. To best relieve a hypercyanotic spell, what action would be the priority? a) Provide supplemental oxygen. b) Use a calm, comforting approach. c) Administer propranolol (0.1 mg/kg IV). d) Place the child in a knee-to-chest position.

Place the child in a knee-to-chest position. Correct Explanation: The priority nursing action is to place the infant or child in a knee-to-chest position. Once the child has been placed in this position, the nurse should provide supplemental oxygen or administer medication as ordered. A calm, comforting approach should be used but is not the priority action. Once a child is placed in the knee-to-chest position, supplemental oxygen would be provided as ordered. Once a child is placed in the knee-to-chest position, medications would be given as ordered.

An infant with tetralogy of Fallot becomes cyanotic. Which nursing intervention would be the first priority? a) Start an IV for fluids. b) Prepare the infant for surgery. c) Raise the head of the bed. d) Place the infant in the knee-chest position.

Place the infant in the knee-chest position. Correct Explanation: Placing the infant in the knee-chest position is the first priority when caring for an infant with tetralogy of Fallot. Starting IV fluids and preparing the child for surgery would not be necessary since it is known that the infant has a cyanotic birth defect. Raising the head of the bed would not be a priority since the infant needs to be placed in the knee-chest position.

Which of the following would be most important to implement for an infant who develops heart failure? a) Restricting milk intake daily b) Keeping her supine and playing quiet games c) Placing her in a semi-Fowler's position d) Planning ways to reduce salt intake

Placing her in a semi-Fowler's position Correct Explanation: Placing an infant with heart failure in a semi-Fowler's position reduces the pressure of abdominal contents against the chest and gives the heart the opportunity to function more effectively.

When reviewing the record of a child with tetralogy of Fallot, which of the following would you expect to discover? a) Anemia b) Increased platelet level c) Polycythemia d) Leukopenia

Polycythemia Correct Explanation: Children who cannot oxygenate red cells well often produce excess red blood cells or develop polycythemia.

A parent brings an infant in for poor feeding. Which of the following assessment data would most likely indicate a coarctation of the aorta? a) Cyanosis with feeding b) Pulses weaker in lower extremities compared to upper extremities c) Cyanosis with crying d) Pulses weaker in upper extremities compared to lower extremities

Pulses weaker in lower extremities compared to upper extremities Explanation: An infant with coarctation of the aorta has decreased systemic circulation causing this problem. The cyanosis would be associated with tetralogy of Fallot.

A child with heart disease is receiving digoxin and a diuretic. Which laboratory test result would be most important for the nurse to monitor? a) Erythrocyte sedimentation rate b) Serum sodium level c) Oxygen saturation level d) Serum potassium level

Serum potassium level Correct Explanation: Children receiving diuretics should have serum potassium levels obtained because diuretics tend to deplete the body of potassium. This is even more important if the child is also receiving digoxin because low serum potassium levels potentiate or increase the effect of the drug. Serum sodium levels may be obtained in children with heart failure to ensure that an increased sodium level is not causing edema. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate identifies inflammation and is unrelated to the use of diuretics and digoxin. Oxygen saturation levels may be done to evaluate for hypoxemia, but these results would be unrelated to the use of digoxin and diuretics.

A nurse is caring for a newborn with congenital heart disease (CHD). Which of the following would the nurse interpret as indicating distress? a) Reduced respiratory rate during feeding b) Feeding lasting for 15-20 minutes c) Perspiration on body after feeding d) Subbcostal retraction at the time of feeding

Subbcostal retraction at the time of feeding Correct Explanation: Subcostal retraction during feeding is indicative of distress associated with feeding in newborn infants with CHD. Feeding can be a stress to newborns with CHD who are seriously compromised. Additional features indicating distress in infants with CHD include increased respiratory rate, perspiration along the hairline during feeding and feeding time longer than 30 minutes.

When caring for a child with a congenital heart defect, which assessment finding may be a sign the child is experiencing heart failure? a) Bradycardia b) Inability to sweat c) Tachycardia d) Splenomegaly

Tachycardia Correct Explanation: Tachycardia is one of the signs of heart failure. Bradycardia, inability to sweat, and splenomegaly are not necessarily signs of heart failure.

A nurse is caring for a child who is experiencing heart failure. Which of the following assessment data was most likely seen when initially examined? a) Bradycardia b) Tachycardia c) Splenomegaly d) Polyuria

Tachycardia Explanation: If a child were experiencing heart failure, the most likely sign of this would be tachycardia, not bradycardia. The child may also experience hepatomegaly or oliguria, but not splenomegaly or polyuria.

At 3 years of age, a child has a cardiac catheterization. After the procedure, which of the following interventions would be most important? a) Allowing the child to adapt to the light room gradually b) Assuring the child that the procedure is now over c) Taking pedal pulses for the first 4 hours d) Allowing the child to talk about the procedure

Taking pedal pulses for the first 4 hours Correct Explanation: Insertion of a catheter into the femoral vein can cause vessel spasm, interfering with blood circulation in the leg. Assessing pedal pulses ensures circulation is adequate.

A newborn has been diagnosed with a congenital heart disease. Which of the following congenital heart diseases is associated with cyanosis? a) Coarctation of aorta b) Aortic stenosis c) Pulmonary stenosis d) Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot Correct Explanation: Tetralogy of Fallot is associated with cyanosis. The defects include ventricular septal defect (VSD), right ventricular hypertrophy, right outflow obstruction, and overriding aorta. Coarctation of aorta, pulmonary stenosis, and aortic stenosis are acyanotic heart diseases and are not associated with cyanosis.

A newborn has been diagnosed with a congenital heart disease. Which of the following congenital heart diseases is associated with cyanosis? a) Aortic stenosis b) Tetralogy of Fallot c) Pulmonary stenosis d) Coarctation of aorta

Tetralogy of Fallot Explanation: Tetralogy of Fallot is associated with cyanosis. The defects include ventricular septal defect (VSD), right ventricular hypertrophy, right outflow obstruction, and overriding aorta. Coarctation of aorta, pulmonary stenosis, and aortic stenosis are acyanotic heart diseases and are not associated with cyanosis.

A nurse is providing education to a family about cardiac catheterization. Which of the following would be included in the education? a) The child will be able to move their leg again immediately after the procedure. b) The procedure will be performed even if the child has a fever. c) The catheter will be placed in the brachial artery. d) The catheter will be placed in the femoral artery.

The catheter will be placed in the femoral artery. Correct Explanation: The femoral artery is the correct placement of the cardiac catheter. The child will need to lie still for several hours after the procedure. The procedure is usually postponed if the child has a fever.

A school nurse finds a 10-year-old's blood pressure is over the 95th percentile. The nurse advises the parent to seek medical attention for the child. What outcome would the nurse expect? a) The child will need the blood pressure checked two more times. b) This is a normal result for a child this age. c) The child will probably need surgery. d) Advise the child go to the emergency room.

The child will need the blood pressure checked two more times. Correct Explanation: The child will need the blood pressure checked two more times. It is routine to check the blood pressure on three separate occasions to get the most accurate analysis of the blood pressure. The child usually does not need surgery or need to go to the emergency room. This is not a normal result in a blood pressure finding.

A nursing instructor is preparing for a class about the structural and functional differences in the cardiovascular system of infants and children as compared to adults. Which of the following would the instructor include in the class discussion? a) The heart's apex is higher in the chest in children younger than the age of 7 years. b) Blood pressure is initially high at birth but gradually decreases to adult levels. c) The heart is about four times the birth size between the ages of 6 and 12 years. d) Left ventricular function predominates immediately after birth.

The heart's apex is higher in the chest in children younger than the age of 7 years. Correct Explanation: In infants and children younger than age 7 years, the heart lies more horizontally, resulting in the apex lying higher in the chest. Right ventricular function predominates at birth, and over the first few months of life, left ventricular function becomes dominant. A normal infant's blood pressure is about 80/40 mm Hg and increases over time to adult levels. Between the ages of 1 and 6 years, the heart is four times the birth size; between 6 and 12 years of age, the heart is 10 times its birth size.

When examining a child with congenital heart disease, an organ in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen can be palpated at 4 cm below the rib cage. Which of the following would most likely explain this assessment finding? a) The spleen increases due to frequent infection. b) The spleen increases due to increased destruction of red blood cells. c) The liver increases in right-sided heart failure. d) The liver increases due to cardiac medications.

The liver increases in right-sided heart failure. Explanation: The liver increases in size due to right-sided heart failure. This is one of the cardinal signs of congestive heart failure. The spleen is in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen and would increase in size under certain circumstances, but this is asking for the upper right quadrant information. There are certain medications that can affect the liver, but this would not be the most likely reason for hepatomegaly.

A nurse is interviewing a mother who is about to deliver her baby. Which of the following responses would alert the nurse for a higher potential for a heart defect in the infant? a) The mother states she slept all the time while pregnant. b) The mother states she took acetaminophen while pregnant. c) The mother has seizures, but did not take medication while pregnant. d) The mother states she has lupus.

The mother states she has lupus. Correct Explanation: Having lupus while pregnant could contribute to a congenital heart defect. Acetaminophen and sleeping do not have an effect on a child developing a heart defect. The seizure medication can have an impact on the child having a heart defect, but not necessarily a history of seizures in the mother.

The nurse is providing education to parents of a child with a blood pressure in the 90th percentile. Which of the following would be included in the intervention strategies? a) The nurse would review the child's 24-hour diet recall. b) The child should not be allowed to participate in sports. c) Blood pressures should be measured daily. d) Beta blocker education should be given to the parents.

The nurse would review the child's 24-hour diet recall. Explanation: With a child in the 90th percentile for blood pressure, diet and physical activity should be the main focus. Blood pressures should be measured, but daily is not necessary. Children are not routinely put on beta blockers and the child should be allowed to participate in sports if monitored.

A parent asks if the reason her infant has a congenital heart defect is because of something she did while she was pregnant. What is the best response by the nurse? a) No, heart defects are mainly caused by genetic factors. b) The studies show it is impossible to know what causes heart defects. c) Yes, there is a chance you caused this defect. d) There are several reasons a baby can have a heart defect, let's talk about those causes.

There are several reasons a baby can have a heart defect, let's talk about those causes. Correct Explanation: Focus on the therapeutic communication in this situation, while still obtaining more information. This will help the nurse explore various options for the cause of the defect with the parent.

A parent asks about the risk of a congenital heart defect being passed on to another child since they already have one child that has it, but no one else in the family has one. What is the best response by the nurse? a) There is a less than 7% chance a sibling would inherit a heart defect. b) These occur related to medication the mother was taking while pregnant. c) This was probably caused by environmental factors, not genetics. d) There is no chance this will be passed to another child since we do not know what caused it.

There is a less than 7% chance a sibling would inherit a heart defect. Correct Explanation: The risk to subsequent siblings of a child with CHD is approximately 2% to 6% so genetics can play a role in the child having a cardiac defect.

A nurse is caring for a child that just had open-heart surgery and the parents are asking why there are wires coming out of the chest of the infant. What is the best response by the nurse? a) These wires are connected to the heart and will detect if your child's heart gets out of rhythm. b) The wires will administer ongoing electrical shocks to the heart to maintain rhythm. c) The wires are left in the heart one month after surgery for potential arrhythmias. d) The wires are measuring the fluid level in the heart.

These wires are connected to the heart and will detect if your child's heart gets out of rhythm. Correct Explanation: The wires may be connected to a pacemaker. Connection to the temporary pacemaker is usually until the child is out of danger for arrhythmia.

Parents are told their infant has a hypoplastic left heart. What is the type of education that would be included for this family? a) This is a problem where the left side of the heart did not develop properly. b) This is a problem where the right side of the heart did not develop properly. c) The infant will have immediate surgery to completely correct the heart defect. d) There are no surgeries that can help the child live with this heart defect.

This is a problem where the left side of the heart did not develop properly. Correct Explanation: This is a problem where the left side of the heart did not develop properly. There is a three-step palliative surgery that can be implemented or the child will need a heart transplant.

A child with a congenital heart defect is getting an echocardiogram. How would the nurse describe this test to the parent? a) This test is an invasive test that will measure the blockage in the heart. b) This is a test that will check how blood is flowing through the heart. c) This is a test that will check the electrical impulses in the heart. d) This test can only determine the size of the heart.

This is a test that will check how blood is flowing through the heart. Explanation: Echocardiograms can determine the size of the heart and how the heart is pumping blood. An echocardiogram does not check the electrical impulses or the size of the heart. This is a non-invasive test.

A parent is asking for more information about their infant's patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). What would be included in the education? a) This is caused by an opening that usually closes by 1 week of age. b) This type of defect is caused by having a genetic predisposition for it. c) Your child may need multiple surgeries to correct this defect. d) An IV for fluids will be started immediately.

This is caused by an opening that usually closes by 1 week of age. Correct Explanation: A PDA is caused by an opening that usually closes by 1 week of age called the ductus arteriosus. The defect is usually fixed by a single surgery or during a cardiac catheterization procedure. IV fluids are not a routine intervention for the PDA. Most of the time a PDA occurs in premature infants.

A parent asks why their infant with a cyanotic heart defect turns blue. What is the best response by the nurse? a) This is a sign of heart failure. b) This is due to a decreased amount of oxygen to the peripheral tissue. c) This is considered a medical emergency and needs immediate surgery. d) This is due to the lack of oxygen to the brain.

This is due to a decreased amount of oxygen to the peripheral tissue. Correct Explanation: Cyanosis associated with certain congenital heart defects is due to the body naturally compensating and decreasing the amount of oxygen to the peripheral tissue. This keeps the oxygen with the vital organs to sustain life. The lack of oxygen is not in the brain; it is in the systemic flow of the body. Cyanosis is a common finding with these types of heart defects and in general, does not usually need immediate surgery or is a sign of heart failure.

A parent is told their infant has a heart defect with a left to right shunt. What is the best way for the nurse to explain this type of shunting to the parent? a) This type of shunting causes an increase of blood to the systemic circulation. b) This type of shunting causes an increase of blood to the lungs. c) This type of shunting causes a decrease of blood to the brain. d) This type of shunting causes a decrease of blood to the lungs.

This type of shunting causes an increase of blood to the lungs. Explanation: This type of shunting causes an increase of blood to the lungs. A right to left shunt causes an increase in blood to the systemic circulation that is mixed with deoxygenated blood.

The nurse has administered oral penicillin as ordered for prophylaxis of endocarditis. The nurse instructs the parents to immediately report which of the following reactions? a) Wheezing b) Stomach upset c) Nausea with diarrhea d) Abdominal distress

Wheezing Correct Explanation: The nurse must report any hypersensitivity reactions such as wheezing and pruritus, as these could be a sign of anaphylaxis. Stomach upset is common with oral antibiotics and is not something that needs to be reported immediately. Nausea with diarrhea is common with oral antibiotics and does not need to be reported immediately. Abdominal distress is common with oral antibiotics and does not need to be reported immediately.

When a child is scheduled for a cardiac catheterization, an important health teaching point for parents is that the a) child will have to remain NPO for 6 to 8 hours after the procedure to prevent vomiting. b) child will return with a bulky pressure dressing over the catheter insertion area. c) child will require a general anesthetic and needs to be prepared for this. d) procedure is noninvasive and not frightening for children.

child will return with a bulky pressure dressing over the catheter insertion area. Correct Explanation: Cardiac catheterization is typically performed with the child awake but using conscious sedation. A dressing will be placed on the catheter insertion site.

You would teach the mother of a boy with tetralogy of Fallot that if he suddenly becomes cyanotic and dyspneic to a) lie him supine with the head turned to one side. b) lie him prone, being sure he can breathe easily. c) place him in a semi-Fowler's position in an infant seat. d) place him in a knee-chest position.

place him in a knee-chest position. Explanation: Placing a child in a knee-chest or squatting position traps blood in the legs, allowing the child to better oxygenate that remaining in the trunk.

An infant girl is prescribed digoxin. You would teach her parents that the action of this drug is to a) slow and strengthen her heartbeat. b) increase her heart rate. c) prevent subacute bacterial endocarditis. d) thicken the walls of the myocardium.

slow and strengthen her heartbeat. Correct Explanation: Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that slows and strengthens the heartbeat.

A child with suspected dyslipidemia undergoes laboratory testing. The nurse is reviewing the results. Which of the following would the nurse interpret as supporting the diagnosis? Select all that apply. a) LDL level of 90 mg/dL b) Total cholesterol level of 180 mg/dL c) LDL level of 120 mg/dL d) LDL level of 140 md/dL e) Total cholesterol level of 150 mg/dL f) Total cholesterol level of 220 mg/dL

• LDL level of 140 md/dL • Total cholesterol level of 220 mg/dL Correct Explanation: A total cholesterol level over 200 mg/dL and LDL level above 130 mg/dL are considered high and would support the diagnosis of dyslipidemia. Total cholesterol levels between 170 to 199 mg/dL and LDL levels between 110 to 129 mg/dL are considered borderline. Total cholesterol levels less than 170 mg/dL and LDL levels less than 110 mg/dL are acceptable in children.

The nurse is reviewing the health history and physical examination of a child diagnosed with heart failure. Which of the following would the nurse expect to find? Select all that apply. a) Shortness of breath when playing b) Crackles on lung auscultation c) Hypertension d) Bradycardia e) Tiring easily when eating

• Shortness of breath when playing • Crackles on lung auscultation • Tiring easily when eating Correct Explanation: Manifestations of heart failure include difficulty feeding or eating or becoming tired easily when feeding or eating, shortness of breath with exercise intolerance, crackles and wheezes on lung auscultation, tachycardia, and hypotension.