A nurse is caring for an infant who has a congenital heart defect. Which of the following defects is associated with increased pulmonary blood flow?
Coarctation of the aorta
Patent ductus arteriosus
Tetralogy of Fallot
Tricuspid atresia
The Correct Answer is B
A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect associated with increased pulmonary blood flow. In normal fetal circulation, the ductus arteriosus allows blood to bypass the lungs since the baby receives oxygen from the mother's placenta. After birth, the ductus arteriosus should close, redirecting blood flow to the lungs for oxygenation. However, in some infants with PDA, the ductus arteriosus remains open, causing an abnormal connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. As a result, oxygenated blood from the aorta flows back into the pulmonary artery, increasing the workload on the lungs.
The other options are as follows:
A. Coarctation of the aorta - Coarctation of the aorta is a narrowing of the aorta, which obstructs blood flow and leads to increased blood pressure in the upper body and reduced blood flow to the lower body.
C. Tetralogy of Fallot - Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four heart defects that results in decreased pulmonary blood flow due to a ventricular septal defect (VSD), overriding aorta, pulmonary stenosis, and right ventricular hypertrophy.
D. Tricuspid atresia - Tricuspid atresia is a congenital heart defect where the tricuspid valve does not develop correctly, resulting in an absent or abnormal tricuspid valve. This defect prevents blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle and, therefore, reduces pulmonary blood flow.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Gastrointestinal:
Kawasaki disease primarily affects blood vessels, and the gastrointestinal system is not the main target of this condition. While gastrointestinal symptoms can occur as part of the overall inflammatory response, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea, they are not the primary focus of concern in Kawasaki disease. The most critical system to monitor in Kawasaki disease is the cardiovascular system, specifically the coronary arteries.
B. Respiratory:
The respiratory system is not the primary system affected by Kawasaki disease. While respiratory symptoms can occur as part of the overall inflammatory response and fever associated with the disease, such as coughing or runny nose, they are not the main concern in Kawasaki disease. The primary system to monitor in this condition is the cardiovascular system, especially the coronary arteries.
C. Cardiovascular:
This is the correct answer. Kawasaki disease is primarily a vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) that affects various blood vessels, including the coronary arteries. The inflammation of the coronary arteries can lead to coronary artery aneurysms and other cardiac complications. Monitoring the cardiovascular system is essential to detect any signs of coronary artery involvement and ensure timely intervention to prevent potential long-term cardiac problems.
D. Integumentary:
The integumentary system (skin) is not the primary focus of Kawasaki disease. While some skin changes can occur during the acute phase of the disease, such as a rash or peeling skin on the hands and feet, these are not the primary concerns. Monitoring the cardiovascular system is critical in Kawasaki disease due to the risk of coronary artery inflammation and potential complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
In an infant with a history of vomiting and fever, body weight is the most reliable indicator of fluid loss. Monitoring the infant's weight over time can help assess the degree of dehydration and guide the appropriate fluid replacement therapy. A significant decrease in body weight suggests significant fluid loss.
Option A: Skin integrity is important to assess for signs of dehydration, but it is not as reliable as body weight in determining the extent of fluid loss.
Option B: Respiratory rate can be affected by various factors and is not a direct indicator of fluid loss.
Option D: Blood pressure is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss in an infant with dehydration. In severe cases of dehydration, blood pressure can drop, but it is not as sensitive as body weight in assessing the extent of fluid loss.
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