A nurse is collecting data from an infant who has coarctation of the aorta. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Machine-like murmur
Severe cyanosis
Decreased blood pressure in the legs
Pulmonary edema
The Correct Answer is C
A. Machine-like murmur:
A machine-like murmur typically refers to a continuous murmur, which can be heard throughout systole and diastole. While machine-like murmurs can be associated with certain cardiac conditions, such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), they are not typically heard in coarctation of the aorta. In coarctation of the aorta, a systolic ejection murmur may be heard over the upper left sternal border due to turbulent blood flow across the narrowed aortic segment.
B. Severe cyanosis:
Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to decreased oxygenation of the blood. While cyanosis can occur in various congenital heart defects, such as tetralogy of Fallot, it is not a characteristic manifestation of coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta typically results in decreased blood flow to the lower extremities rather than mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
C. Decreased blood pressure in the legs:
This is the correct choice. Coarctation of the aorta is characterized by narrowing of the aorta, which leads to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities. Consequently, blood pressure measurements in the legs may be lower compared to those in the arms. This finding is often a key indicator of coarctation of the aorta.
D. Pulmonary edema:
Pulmonary edema refers to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs and is typically associated with conditions such as heart failure or fluid overload. While some congenital heart defects may lead to heart failure and subsequent pulmonary edema, coarctation of the aorta does not directly cause pulmonary edema. Instead, it primarily affects blood flow to the lower extremities due to the narrowing of the aorta.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Your child's diet should be high in carbohydrates & proteins with no restriction of fats."
This statement is not entirely accurate. While it's true that children with cystic fibrosis often require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support growth and weight gain, there is typically a need to restrict fat intake. Pancreatic insufficiency, which is common in cystic fibrosis, can lead to malabsorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Therefore, a dietitian may recommend enzyme replacement therapy and a diet that is moderate in fat but high in calories and protein.
B. "Limit your child's intake of sodium to avoid complications."
This statement is not accurate. Cystic fibrosis can lead to excessive loss of salt in sweat, which can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, limiting sodium intake can cause electrolyte disturbances.
C. "A pigeon-shaped chest might become evident as the disease progresses."
This statement is accurate. Cystic fibrosis can cause chronic lung infections and inflammation, leading to structural changes in the chest over time. One common manifestation is a barrel-shaped or "pigeon-shaped" chest, which can occur as the disease progresses. This may result from hyperinflation of the lungs due to air trapping and chronic respiratory compromise.
D. "Administer a bronchodilator to the child after chest percussion therapy."
This statement is not necessarily accurate or applicable to all cases. Bronchodilators are medications used to help relax and open the airways in conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While bronchodilators may be part of the treatment regimen for some individuals with cystic fibrosis, their use after chest percussion therapy would depend on the individual's specific respiratory symptoms and treatment plan. It's important for the parents to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding medication administration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
To calculate the appropriate dose of Theophylline for the child weighing 4.69 kg:
Dose = Weight (kg) × Dose (mg/kg)
Dose = 4.69 kg × 4 mg/kg
Dose = 18.76 mg
So, the appropriate dose is approximately 18.7 mg.
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