A nurse is caring for an infant who has tetralogy of Fallot. The infant is crying and is experiencing a hypercyanotic spell. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer morphine subcutaneously.
Apply a face mask supplying 100% oxygen.
Attempt to calm and soothe the child.
Place the infant in a knee-chest position.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Morphine subcutaneously can help reduce anxiety and stress, but supplying oxygen is the priority intervention.
Choice B rationale:
During a hypercyanotic spell ("tet spell"), the infant's oxygen levels drop, leading to cyanosis (blue skin) and distress. Administering oxygen can help improve oxygen saturation and alleviate the spell.
Choice C rationale:
Calming and soothing the child may not be sufficient to address the oxygen saturation issue during a hypercyanotic spell.
Choice D rationale:
Placing the infant in a knee-chest position can help improve blood flow, but administering oxygen should be the initial step.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A contraction stress test is not appropriate in this context and would not address the potential risks associated with the client's symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
The elevated blood pressure and upper abdominal pain suggest potential preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can lead to significant maternal and fetal risks. Delivery may be indicated to prevent further complications.
Choice C rationale:
Increasing dietary salt intake is not recommended for managing elevated blood pressure in pregnancy.
Choice D rationale:
Administering ferrous sulfate is unrelated to the client's symptoms and concerns.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Restricting fluid intake is not the primary concern when taking lithium. It's more important to maintain a consistent level of sodium intake.
Choice B rationale:
Doubling the dose of lithium without medical supervision can lead to lithium toxicity, which can be life-threatening.
Choice C rationale:
Sodium levels can impact the effectiveness and safety of lithium. Consuming a moderate- sodium diet helps prevent sodium depletion or overload, which can affect lithium levels.
Choice D rationale:
Slurred speech is not indicative of low lithium levels. It's important to monitor for signs of lithium toxicity, which include tremors, confusion, and GI symptoms.
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