A nurse is assessing an infant who has coarctation of the aorta. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Clubbing of the fingers is not typically associated with coarctation of the aorta; it is more commonly seen in chronic hypoxia conditions.

Choice B reason: Weak femoral pulses are expected in coarctation of the aorta due to the narrowing of the aorta, which can reduce blood flow to the lower extremities.

Choice C reason: Cool skin of the lower extremities can be a result of decreased blood flow due to the narrowed aorta in coarctation.

Choice D reason: High blood pressure is more commonly associated with coarctation of the aorta, especially in the upper body, due to the narrowing of the aorta increasing resistance to blood flow⁷.

Choice E reason: Severe cyanosis can occur in coarctation of the aorta if there is a significant obstruction to blood flow, leading to poor oxygenation.

Choice A reason: Digoxin is used to treat heart conditions by slowing the heart rate and increasing its efficiency. It does not increase the heart rate. The normal heart rate for a 12-month-old infant ranges from 80 to 160 beats per minute.

Choice B reason: If an infant vomits after taking digoxin, repeating the dose could lead to toxicity. Instead, caregivers should wait until the next scheduled dose or contact a healthcare provider for guidance.

Choice C reason: Administering digoxin at regular intervals ensures consistent therapeutic levels in the bloodstream, which is crucial for the medication's efficacy and safety.

Choice D reason: Offering fluids after medication does not interfere with digoxin's absorption. However, caregivers should be aware of the signs of digoxin toxicity, which include vomiting, lethargy, and bradycardia.