What is the priority nursing intervention for a newborn infant diagnosed with transposition of the great vessels?
Preparing the infant for immediate surgery
Initiating feeding through a nasogastric tube
Administering oxygen via nasal cannula
Administer prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) to maintain patency of the ductus arteriosus
The Correct Answer is D
A. Preparing for immediate surgery is necessary, but the priority intervention is to ensure adequate oxygenation and blood flow through the ductus arteriosus before surgery can be performed.
B. Initiating feeding through a nasogastric tube is not a priority for an infant with this condition, as their immediate need is to address the circulatory issue rather than feeding.
C. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula may provide some relief but is not sufficient as a standalone intervention for transposition of the great vessels, which requires maintaining ductal patency to allow mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
D. Administering prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is the priority intervention, as it helps maintain patency of the ductus arteriosus, allowing for temporary stabilization of the infant’s condition until surgical intervention can be performed.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Using a tongue depressor can provoke spasm of the epiglottis and lead to airway obstruction; therefore, this action is contraindicated in a child with epiglottitis.
B. Airborne precautions are not necessary for epiglottitis; droplet precautions are more appropriate due to the risk of transmission.
C. Monitoring oxygen saturation is critical in this situation to assess the child's respiratory status and ensure adequate oxygenation, making it the most appropriate action.
D. Obtaining a throat culture may not be safe or practical in this scenario, as it can provoke further distress and complications; immediate assessment and stabilization are prioritized.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Tricuspid atresia typically leads to decreased pulmonary blood flow due to the absence of normal blood flow to the lungs.
B. Patent ductus arteriosus results in increased pulmonary blood flow because it allows blood to flow from the aorta to the pulmonary artery, increasing the volume of blood going to the lungs.
C. Coarctation of the aorta can cause decreased blood flow to the lower body, which may not directly relate to increased pulmonary blood flow.
D. Tetralogy of Fallot is characterized by decreased pulmonary blood flow due to right ventricular outflow obstruction, making it not associated with increased pulmonary blood flow.
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