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 B
Explanation
Infusion rate (mL/hour) = Total volume (mL) / Total time (hours)
Given:
Child's weight: 10 kg
Ordered volume: 40 mL/kg
Total time: 4 hours
First, calculate the total volume of Lactated Ringer's solution needed:
Total volume = 40 mL/kg × 10 kg = 400 mL
Then, divide the total volume by the total time to find the infusion rate:
Infusion rate = 400 mL / 4 hours = 100 mL/hour
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Withhold opioids to avoid dependence.
This option is incorrect. Opioid analgesics are commonly used to manage the severe pain associated with sickle cell crisis. Withholding opioids during a crisis could lead to inadequate pain relief and compromise the adolescent's comfort and recovery. It's important to appropriately administer opioids as prescribed to alleviate pain and suffering.
B. Assist RN with administering a blood transfusion.
This option may be appropriate depending on the severity and indications of the sickle cell crisis. Blood transfusions are sometimes used to treat sickle cell crises, particularly in cases of severe anemia or acute complications such as acute chest syndrome. However, the decision to administer a blood transfusion should be made by the healthcare provider based on the individual patient's clinical status and needs. The nurse's role would include assisting the registered nurse (RN) with the administration of the transfusion and monitoring the adolescent for any adverse reactions.
C. Initiate a 2 L/day fluid restriction.
This option is incorrect. During a sickle cell crisis, it is important to maintain adequate hydration to help prevent dehydration and reduce the viscosity of blood, which can help prevent sickling of red blood cells. Fluid intake should be encouraged, and there is typically no need for fluid restriction unless there are specific medical reasons to do so.
D. Encourage exercise.
This option is incorrect. During a sickle cell crisis, the adolescent is likely experiencing significant pain and discomfort, which may limit their ability to engage in physical activity. Encouraging exercise during a crisis could exacerbate pain and potentially lead to complications. Rest and minimizing physical exertion are typically recommended during a sickle cell crisis to promote comfort and conserve energy.
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