Congenital Heart Disease

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Question 1: A nurse is teaching a client about congenital heart diseases. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. This statement is inaccurate. Congenital heart diseases are not acquired during childhood but are present from birth due to abnormalities in heart development during fetal development.

B) This option is correct. The client's statement accurately defines congenital heart diseases as heart conditions present from birth, affecting the heart's structure or function.

C) This option is correct. Some congenital heart diseases can be detected prenatally through fetal echocardiography, a specialized ultrasound to assess the fetal heart.

D) This option is correct. Treatment for congenital heart diseases varies depending on the specific condition but may include medications, surgical interventions, or other medical procedures.


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Question 2: A nurse is discussing the prevalence of congenital heart diseases with a client. Which population should the nurse identify as having the highest risk for these conditions?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Middle-aged adults are not considered a high-risk population for congenital heart diseases. These conditions are primarily present from birth.

B) This option is incorrect. Elderly individuals are not at high risk for congenital heart diseases since these conditions are typically diagnosed at birth or during childhood.

C) This option is incorrect. While prenatal diagnosis of certain congenital heart diseases is possible through fetal echocardiography, pregnant women themselves are not at a higher risk for developing these conditions.

D) Correct answer. Neonates and infants are the highest-risk population for congenital heart diseases because these conditions are typically present from birth and may become apparent shortly after delivery or during infancy.


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Question 3: A client with a congenital heart disease asks the nurse about potential symptoms they might experience. Which response by the nurse is accurate?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. While some individuals with congenital heart diseases may remain asymptomatic, others can experience symptoms depending on the type and severity of the condition.

B) This option is incorrect. Congenital heart diseases are present from birth, and symptoms may manifest shortly after birth or during infancy, childhood, or adolescence.

C) Correct answer. Common symptoms of congenital heart diseases can include cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin or lips due to poor oxygenation), fatigue, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may arise due to poor blood circulation and oxygenation.

D) This option is incorrect. Congenital heart diseases do not typically present with mild cold-like symptoms and fever. These are more indicative of common respiratory infections, unrelated to heart conditions.


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Question 4: A nurse is explaining the significance of early detection and treatment of congenital heart diseases. Which outcome should the nurse emphasize as a result of timely intervention?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. While early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, complete resolution of congenital heart diseases is not always possible.

B) This option is incorrect. Timely intervention and treatment are essential for managing congenital heart diseases in affected individuals, but they do not prevent the occurrence of these conditions in future pregnancies.

C) Correct answer. Early management of congenital heart diseases is crucial in minimizing complications, improving the quality of life for affected individuals, and enhancing long-term outcomes.

D) This option is incorrect. While early treatment can significantly improve life expectancy and overall health outcomes, it may not guarantee a "normal" life expectancy for all individuals with congenital heart diseases, as outcomes depend on the specific condition and severity.


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Question 5: A client asks the nurse about the causes of congenital heart diseases. What should the nurse explain as the primary factor contributing to these conditions?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Genetic factors and chromosomal abnormalities are among the primary causes of congenital heart diseases. These conditions often arise due to errors in heart development during fetal growth.

B) This option is incorrect. While certain environmental factors may increase the risk of congenital heart diseases, they are not the leading cause of these conditions.

C) This option is incorrect. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, may contribute to heart diseases in adults, but they are not the primary cause of congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. Vaccination is important for preventing certain infections, but it is not directly related to the cause or prevention of congenital heart diseases.


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Question 6: A nurse is discussing the importance of prenatal care in relation to congenital heart diseases. Which statement should the nurse include in the teaching?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Regular prenatal care, including fetal echocardiography, allows for early detection of certain congenital heart diseases in the fetus. This enables appropriate management and planning for the baby's care after birth.

B) This option is incorrect. While prenatal care is essential for overall maternal and fetal health, it is not related to heart transplant considerations.

C) This option is incorrect. Congenital heart diseases can be detected during pregnancy through fetal echocardiography and other diagnostic tests.

D) This option is incorrect. Prenatal care involves monitoring the health and development of the fetus and aims to address potential issues to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby, including the early detection and management of congenital heart diseases.


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Question 7: A client asks the nurse about the potential risk factors for congenital heart diseases. Which response should the nurse provide?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Advanced maternal age and maternal obesity are among the known risk factors for congenital heart diseases. These factors may increase the likelihood of certain heart abnormalities during fetal development.

B) This option is incorrect. Exposure to common childhood illnesses during pregnancy is not a recognized risk factor for congenital heart diseases. The causes are primarily genetic and developmental in nature.

C) This option is incorrect. While genetic factors play a significant role in the development of congenital heart diseases, there are other recognized risk factors, such as maternal age and obesity.

D) This option is incorrect. There are known risk factors for congenital heart diseases, as mentioned in option A. While some cases may occur sporadically without identifiable risk factors, many cases have associated factors that can be addressed through prenatal care and management.

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Question 8: A nurse is providing education to a client who is pregnant and concerned about the risk of congenital heart diseases in their unborn baby. Which risk factor should the nurse mention?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Family history of congenital heart diseases is a significant risk factor. If a close family member has had a congenital heart defect, the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies may be higher.

B) Correct answer. Exposure to certain infections during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles), can increase the risk of congenital heart diseases in the baby. Rubella is known to be teratogenic, meaning it can cause birth defects.

C) This option is incorrect. While a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is important for overall maternal and fetal health, it is not the primary risk factor for congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. While genetic factors play a significant role in the etiology of congenital heart diseases, there are other identifiable risk factors, as mentioned in option B.


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Question 9: A client with a family history of congenital heart diseases asks the nurse about ways to reduce the risk for their future children. What should the nurse advise?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Maintaining a sedentary lifestyle during pregnancy is not recommended, as moderate exercise can be beneficial for both maternal and fetal health.

B) This option is incorrect. Prenatal check-ups and ultrasounds are essential for monitoring the health and development of the fetus and identifying any potential issues, including congenital heart diseases.

C) Correct answer. Genetic counseling can help assess the risk of congenital heart diseases based on the family history and provide guidance and recommendations for future pregnancies. This counseling can assist in making informed decisions about prenatal care and potential interventions.

D) This option is incorrect. While a family history of congenital heart diseases may increase the risk, seeking appropriate medical guidance and prenatal care can help manage and address these risks.


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Question 10: A nurse is conducting a prenatal education session for expectant parents. Which maternal condition should the nurse identify as a risk factor for congenital heart diseases?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Gestational diabetes is associated with an increased risk of congenital heart diseases in the baby. Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy can affect fetal development and increase the likelihood of birth defects, including heart defects.

B) This option is incorrect. While preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication, it is not specifically linked to an increased risk of congenital heart diseases.

C) This option is incorrect. Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland during pregnancy, may pose risks to both the mother and baby, but it is not directly associated with congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. Iron deficiency anemia can affect maternal and fetal health, but it is not considered a risk factor for congenital heart diseases.


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Question 11: A client asks the nurse about the role of medication use during pregnancy in the development of congenital heart diseases. How should the nurse respond?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Not all medications are safe to use during pregnancy, and some may pose risks to the developing baby, including potential congenital heart defects.

B) Correct answer. Some medications, like certain antihypertensives and medications with known teratogenic effects, can increase the risk of congenital heart diseases if used during pregnancy. It is essential for pregnant individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage any medical conditions and choose safe medications during pregnancy.

C) This option is incorrect. Some vaccinations are recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby from certain infections. Properly administered vaccinations during pregnancy are generally safe and do not significantly impact heart development.

D) This option is incorrect. Medication use during pregnancy can have various effects on the developing baby, and certain medications may increase the risk of congenital heart diseases.


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Question 12: A nurse is assessing a pregnant client's risk factors for congenital heart diseases. Which information should the nurse prioritize during the assessment?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Ethnic background and cultural practices can influence the risk of congenital heart diseases. Some genetic and environmental factors that contribute to heart defects may vary among different ethnic groups.

B) This option is incorrect. While prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation is important for maternal and fetal health, it is not a specific risk factor for congenital heart diseases.

C) This option is incorrect. Fetal movements and kicking patterns are important indicators of fetal well-being, but they are not directly related to the risk of congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. Employment and work-related stress levels are not known risk factors for congenital heart diseases.


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Question 13: A nurse is providing education to a group of expectant parents about modifiable risk factors for congenital heart diseases. Which factor should the nurse emphasize as one that can be modified during pregnancy?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Maternal age is a non-modifiable risk factor. However, it is important to educate parents about other factors they can control during pregnancy.

B) This option is incorrect. Family history of heart diseases is a non-modifiable risk factor since it relates to the genetic predisposition for certain conditions.

C) Correct answer. Exposure to environmental toxins can be a modifiable risk factor if expectant parents take appropriate measures to avoid exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy. This may include avoiding certain chemicals, pollutants, and teratogenic agents.

D) This option is incorrect. Genetic inheritance is a non-modifiable risk factor for congenital heart diseases, as it relates to the transmission of genes from parents to their children.


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Question 14: A client asks the nurse about the impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on the risk of congenital heart diseases. What should the nurse explain?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can have significant adverse effects on fetal development, including an increased risk of congenital heart diseases. Even moderate alcohol consumption is not safe during pregnancy.

B) Correct answer. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a known risk factor for congenital heart diseases and other birth defects. It is best to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy to protect the developing baby.

C) This option is incorrect. The impact of alcohol on the baby's heart development is generally negative regardless of the type of alcoholic beverage consumed. All types of alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy.

D) This option is incorrect. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can have far-reaching effects on fetal development, affecting both the heart and brain, among other organ systems.

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Question 15:

A nurse is assessing a newborn with suspected congenital heart disease. Which clinical finding should the nurse prioritize as an early symptom of heart defects?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Difficulty swallowing and poor feeding may indicate other issues, such as gastrointestinal problems, but they are not early symptoms specific to congenital heart diseases.

B) Correct answer. Cyanosis (bluish skin or lips) during crying or feeding is an early clinical finding that may indicate inadequate oxygenation due to heart defects. This symptom is especially prominent in cyanotic congenital heart diseases.

C) This option is incorrect. Persistent cough and recurrent respiratory infections may be related to respiratory issues but are not specific early symptoms of congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. Excessive weight gain and a rapid growth rate are not typical early symptoms of congenital heart diseases.


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Question 16:

A client with a newborn diagnosed with congenital heart disease asks the nurse about the baby's feeding patterns. What should the nurse explain about feeding difficulties in infants with heart defects?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Infants with congenital heart diseases may have feeding difficulties due to fatigue and inadequate oxygenation, which can affect their appetite and feeding patterns.

B) This option is incorrect. Feeding difficulties in infants with heart defects are common due to their increased energy expenditure and compromised cardiovascular function. These difficulties may require appropriate interventions and ongoing support.

C) Correct answer. Many infants with congenital heart diseases experience fatigue and increased energy expenditure due to their heart's extra workload. This can lead to feeding difficulties, inadequate weight gain, and slower growth.

D) This option is incorrect. Congenital heart diseases can significantly impact feeding patterns in infants, and special attention is required to support their nutritional needs.


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Question 17: A client with a newborn is concerned about the baby's frequent episodes of sweating, especially during feedings. What should the nurse explain about this clinical manifestation in some congenital heart diseases?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Frequent sweating during feedings is not a normal response to the increased workload of the baby's heart. It can indicate an underlying issue related to heart function.

B) This option is incorrect. While gastrointestinal discomfort may cause sweating during feedings, it is not the most likely explanation, especially in the context of congenital heart diseases.

C) This option is incorrect. Inability to regulate body temperature is not a common reason for sweating during feedings in infants with congenital heart diseases.

D) Correct answer. Excessive sweating during feedings can be a sign of increased cardiac effort and inadequate oxygen supply in some congenital heart diseases. This symptom may be present in babies with cyanotic heart defects, where oxygen-rich blood is not adequately circulated to the body, leading to compensatory mechanisms like sweating to maintain oxygen balance.


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Question 18: A nurse is assessing a toddler diagnosed with congenital heart disease. Which symptom should the nurse prioritize as a sign of heart failure in children?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping are common signs of heart failure in children with congenital heart diseases. Heart failure can lead to poor circulation, decreased cardiac output, and inadequate oxygenation, resulting in reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping due to increased effort in breathing.

B) This option is incorrect. Rapid growth and development milestones achieved ahead of schedule are not indicative of heart failure in children with congenital heart diseases.

C) This option is incorrect. Decreased heart rate and low blood pressure may be signs of cardiovascular compromise, but they are not specific to heart failure.

D) This option is incorrect. Frequent episodes of irritability and excessive crying may be present in infants with heart defects, but they are not specific to heart failure in toddlers.


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Question 19: A nurse is caring for a child with congenital heart disease who presents with clubbing of the fingers and toes. What should the nurse recognize about this clinical manifestation?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. Clubbing of the fingers and toes is not a normal developmental finding in infants and young children. It can indicate an underlying health issue.

B) This option is incorrect. While chronic respiratory issues may cause clubbing, it is specifically related to congenital heart diseases and chronic low oxygen levels.

C) Correct answer. Clubbing of the fingers and toes can indicate chronic low oxygen levels and impaired cardiac function in children with congenital heart diseases. It is a result of changes in the blood vessels and tissues due to inadequate oxygenation.

D) This option is incorrect. Clubbing of the fingers and toes is not commonly observed during adolescence, and it is not temporary. It can persist if the underlying heart condition is not adequately managed.


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Question 20: A client brings their toddler to the clinic due to recurrent respiratory infections. The child often presents with a harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur. What should the nurse recognize about this clinical presentation?

Explanation

A) This option is incorrect. While heart murmurs can be common and innocent in children, a harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur requires further evaluation.

B) This option is incorrect. A harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur is not a normal finding and should be assessed for potential congenital heart diseases.

C) Correct answer. The presence of a harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur in a child with recurrent respiratory infections is

concerning for potential congenital heart diseases. It may indicate an abnormal blood flow within the heart, which warrants further evaluation and diagnosis.

D) This option is incorrect. Heart murmurs that are harsh, loud, and continuous are not considered benign and require further evaluation and monitoring.


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Question 21:

A nurse is assessing a school-age child with a congenital heart defect. Which symptom should the nurse recognize as a potential indicator of worsening heart failure?

Explanation

A) Correct answer. Weight gain and edema in the lower extremities can be signs of worsening heart failure in children with congenital heart defects. Fluid retention occurs due to the heart's inability to effectively pump blood, leading to fluid accumulation in the body.

B) This option is incorrect. While decreased heart rate and blood pressure within the normal range may be indicative of stable heart function, they are not specific indicators of worsening heart failure.

C) This option is incorrect. Improved appetite and increased physical activity level are positive indicators but do not specifically reflect the child's heart failure status.

D) This option is incorrect. Resolution of cyanosis and pink coloration of the lips and nail beds are positive signs of improved oxygenation and may indicate effective management of the heart defect but not the potential worsening of heart failure.


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Question 22: A nurse is caring for an infant suspected of having a congenital heart disease. Which assessment finding is most indicative of this condition?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. The pallor and coolness of the skin may indicate poor cardiac output and impaired circulation commonly seen in congenital heart diseases. These signs are suggestive of reduced oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues.

B) Incorrect. The respiratory rate being within the normal range does not specifically point to a congenital heart disease. Other signs and symptoms should be assessed to confirm the diagnosis.

C) Incorrect. The closure and firmness of the fontanelle are related to the status of the infant's skull bones and do not directly indicate congenital heart disease.

D) Incorrect. Weight gain following the growth chart percentile for age is not directly associated with congenital heart diseases. There are more specific clinical indicators to consider in the assessment of this condition.


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Question 23: A client with a diagnosed congenital heart disease is prescribed digoxin. What should the nurse include in the client's teaching about this medication?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Digoxin is commonly prescribed for clients with congenital heart diseases to improve cardiac contractility. It is essential to monitor the heart rate before administration since digoxin can cause bradycardia as a side effect.

B) Incorrect. The statement is not accurate. There is no need to avoid green, leafy vegetables while taking digoxin. However, the client should be informed about potential drug interactions and follow a balanced diet.

C) Incorrect. Clients taking digoxin should be cautious about consuming potassium-rich foods, as hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can potentiate the effects of digoxin and lead to toxicity.

D) Incorrect. Mild nausea can be a common side effect of digoxin, and the client should not discontinue the medication without consulting their healthcare provider. Instead, they should report any adverse effects for proper evaluation.


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Question 24: A nurse is assessing a child with a congenital heart disease. Which symptom requires immediate intervention?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Mild cyanosis during crying or feeding can indicate inadequate oxygenation and increased workload on the heart. This symptom requires immediate intervention to ensure proper oxygen supply to vital organs.

B) Incorrect. Occasional heart palpitations may not be a severe concern and may not require immediate intervention. However, the healthcare provider should still be notified for further evaluation.

C) Incorrect. Fatigue after physical activity is common in clients with congenital heart diseases due to compromised cardiac function. Although it needs attention, it does not require immediate intervention.

D) Incorrect. A heart murmur audible throughout systole and diastole can indicate structural heart abnormalities. While it requires medical follow-up, it may not need immediate intervention unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.


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Question 25: A client with a history of congenital heart disease is scheduled for dental surgery. What precaution should the nurse recommend to the client?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Premedicating with an antipyretic before the dental procedure can help prevent bacterial endocarditis, a severe infection in clients with certain congenital heart diseases.

B) Incorrect. Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for some clients with congenital heart diseases to prevent bacterial endocarditis. The client should consult their healthcare provider for appropriate prophylactic measures.

C) Incorrect. The timing of the surgery in the afternoon does not significantly impact recovery. The appropriate timing should be determined by the healthcare provider and the client's medical condition.

D) Incorrect. Aspirin is an anticoagulant, and the client should consult their healthcare provider about the management of aspirin therapy before any surgical procedure.


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Question 26: A nurse is preparing to administer a dose of prostaglandin E1 to an infant with a congenital heart disease. What is the primary therapeutic effect of this medication?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 does not directly increase hemoglobin levels or oxygenation in the blood.

B) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 helps maintain the patency of the ductus arteriosus to ensure adequate blood flow to systemic circulation, especially in certain congenital heart diseases. It does not reduce pulmonary blood flow and pressure.

C) The answer is C. Prostaglandin E1 is used to keep the ductus arteriosus open, allowing blood to flow from the pulmonary artery to the aorta. In certain congenital heart diseases, such as critical congenital heart defects, this is necessary to ensure adequate blood circulation.

D) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 does not promote the growth of cardiac muscle tissue. Its primary therapeutic effect is related to the patency of the ductus arteriosus.


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Question 27: A nurse is preparing a care plan for an infant with a congenital heart disease who will undergo corrective surgery. What should be the priority nursing intervention postoperatively?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Monitoring urine output closely is essential postoperatively to assess kidney perfusion and fluid balance, as infants are at risk of fluid shifts after cardiac surgery.

B) Incorrect. While administering prescribed analgesics is important for postoperative pain management, it is not the priority intervention among the options provided.

C) Incorrect. Encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises is important to prevent respiratory complications, but it is not the priority intervention immediately after cardiac surgery.

D) Incorrect. Elevating the head of the bed can help with respiratory effort, but it is not the priority intervention. Monitoring urine output and fluid balance is more critical in the early postoperative period.


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Question 28: A client with a congenital heart disease is being discharged home. What should the nurse include in the client's discharge teaching regarding activity?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Encouraging high-intensity aerobic exercises daily is not appropriate for a client with a congenital heart disease, as it can put excessive strain on the heart and may not be safe.

B) The answer is B. Limiting physical activities to mild exercises and avoiding competitive sports is recommended for clients with congenital heart diseases to prevent overexertion and potential complications.

C) Incorrect. Complete restriction of physical activity for six months is not necessary for most clients with congenital heart diseases. It is essential to promote safe and appropriate physical activities.

D) Incorrect. Activities with prolonged standing may increase venous return and potentially worsen certain congenital heart conditions. The focus should be on low to moderate intensity exercises.

QUESTIONS


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Question 29: A nurse is caring for a client with a congenital heart disease who is prescribed digoxin. The nurse should instruct the client to report which symptom immediately?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Weight gain of 1 pound in a week can indicate fluid retention, which may be a sign of digoxin toxicity. The nurse should instruct the client to report this symptom immediately to prevent further complications.

B) Incorrect. A heart rate below 100 beats per minute is within the normal range for most clients. A lower heart rate is often expected in clients taking digoxin, and it does not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

C) Incorrect. Occasional episodes of diarrhea are common side effects of digoxin. The client should report persistent or severe diarrhea, but occasional episodes may not be a cause for immediate concern.

D) Incorrect. Mild swelling of the ankles after activity is not directly related to digoxin use. The nurse should monitor the client's ankles for any worsening swelling, but it does not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

The answer is A


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Question 30: A client with a congenital heart disease is prescribed enalapril. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid consuming which food while on this medication?

Explanation

C) Incorrect. Dairy products rich in calcium are not contraindicated with enalapril use. Calcium and ACE inhibitors do not have direct interactions.

D) Incorrect. Foods high in vitamin B12 are not contraindicated with enalapril use. There is no specific dietary restriction regarding vitamin B12 intake for clients taking this medication.


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Question 31: A nurse is caring for a client with a congenital heart disease who is scheduled for corrective surgery. The client asks the nurse about the risk of infection after the procedure. What is the nurse's best response?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Prophylactic antibiotics are often given before surgical procedures to prevent infection, especially in clients with congenital heart diseases who may be at a higher risk of endocarditis.

B) Incorrect. While it's essential for the client to take precautions after surgery to reduce the risk of infection, avoiding contact with others for two weeks is not necessary or practical. Instead, following proper wound care and taking prescribed medications as instructed are more relevant measures.

C) Incorrect. Discharging the client early from the hospital does not necessarily reduce the risk of infection. Postoperative care and wound management are crucial to prevent infection, regardless of the length of the hospital stay.

D) Incorrect. All surgical procedures carry some risk of infection. While healthcare providers take measures to minimize this risk, it is not accurate to claim there is no risk at all.


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Question 32: A client with a congenital heart disease is experiencing cyanosis and clubbing of the fingers. The nurse should recognize these symptoms as signs of:

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Left-sided heart failure typically presents with symptoms such as pulmonary congestion, shortness of breath, and crackles in the lungs, rather than cyanosis and clubbing.

B) Incorrect. Right-sided heart failure can cause peripheral edema and jugular vein distention, but it does not usually lead to cyanosis and clubbing.

C) The answer is C. Cyanosis and clubbing of the fingers are signs of chronic hypoxia, which can occur in pulmonary hypertension. This condition increases pulmonary vascular resistance and impairs oxygenation, leading to these characteristic symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Peripheral vascular disease primarily affects the arteries and veins in the extremities and is not directly related to cyanosis and clubbing of the fingers.


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Question 33: A nurse is caring for a child with a congenital heart disease who is prescribed furosemide (Lasix). What is the nurse's priority action before administering this medication?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Before administering furosemide, it is essential to assess the child's respiratory rate because this medication is a loop diuretic that can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia. Respiratory rate assessment helps monitor for signs of respiratory distress, especially in clients with heart failure.

B) Incorrect. While monitoring the child's blood pressure is essential, it is not the priority action before administering furosemide. Blood pressure may be affected by the diuretic action of the medication, but respiratory status is more critical to assess initially.

C) Incorrect. Although monitoring electrolyte levels is important when administering furosemide, it is not the priority action. Assessing the child's respiratory rate takes precedence to identify any respiratory distress.

D) Incorrect. Determining the child's weight is relevant in assessing the effectiveness of furosemide therapy. However, it is not the priority action before administering the medication. Respiratory assessment is more critical for immediate intervention.

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Question 34: A nurse is providing education to a client with a newborn diagnosed with a congenital heart disease. What should the nurse include in the teaching?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Not all congenital heart diseases resolve on their own. While some may improve over time, it is essential for the client to follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for monitoring and treatment.

B) Incorrect. While breastfeeding has many benefits for infants, it may not directly impact the congenital heart disease. The nurse should focus on educating the client about managing the specific heart condition.

C) Incorrect. Avoiding vaccinations and routine check-ups is not recommended. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are crucial for overall health, and the healthcare provider will guide the client regarding any specific precautions or modifications needed due to the heart condition.

D) The answer is D. Clients with congenital heart diseases are at increased risk of infections, so it is essential to educate the client about infection prevention measures, such as limiting contact with other children during times of increased risk.


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Question 35: A nurse is caring for an infant with a congenital heart disease who is prescribed multiple medications. What should the nurse do to ensure proper administration of medications?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Not all medications can be crushed, and mixing them with the infant's formula may affect their efficacy. Crushing medications should only be done when it is safe and appropriate, as determined by the healthcare provider.

B) Incorrect. Administering medications simultaneously may not be feasible or safe, as some medications require specific intervals between doses. The nurse should follow the prescribed administration schedule to ensure appropriate drug levels in the infant's system.

C) The answer is C. Using a medication organizer can help the nurse and the infant's parents keep track of the complex medication schedule. This helps prevent missed doses and ensures proper administration of each medication.

D) Incorrect. The nurse, along with the healthcare provider, should determine the medication dosing times based on the infant's condition and the prescribed schedule. Leaving the decision solely to the parents may lead to dosing errors or missed doses.


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Question 36: A client with a congenital heart disease is experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain. What action should the client take immediately?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and is not the appropriate action in this situation.

B) Incorrect. Deep breathing exercises may not alleviate the symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain. The client should seek medical attention for proper evaluation and management.

C) Incorrect. While resting quietly is generally advisable, it may not be sufficient to address the client's symptoms. Seeking medical attention is essential to identify and manage the cause of the symptoms.

D) The answer is D. Shortness of breath and chest pain can be signs of a cardiac event or worsening of the congenital heart disease. The client should seek medical attention immediately to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment.


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Question 37: A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to an infant with a congenital heart disease. What is the nurse's priority action before giving the medication?

Explanation

A) The answer is A. Before administering digoxin, the nurse should check the infant's apical heart rate for a full minute. Digoxin is a medication used to improve cardiac contractility, and knowing the heart rate helps ensure the medication is given safely and at the correct dose.

B) Incorrect. While measuring blood pressure is essential in some cases, it is not the priority action before administering digoxin.

C) Incorrect. Assessing capillary refill time is an important part of the overall assessment, but it is not the priority action before giving digoxin.

D) Incorrect. While observing for respiratory distress is crucial, it is not the priority action in this specific scenario of preparing to administer digoxin. Checking the heart rate takes precedence.


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Question 38: A nurse is providing discharge education to the parents of an infant with a congenital heart disease. What should the nurse include in the teaching regarding feeding?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. While solid foods are introduced around six months of age, the nurse should consider the specific condition of the infant's congenital heart disease before giving feeding recommendations.

B) The answer is B. Infants with congenital heart diseases may tire easily during feeding due to the increased effort required for sucking and swallowing. Feeding small, frequent meals can help prevent fatigue and ensure adequate nutrition.

C) Incorrect. Breastfeeding is generally encouraged, even for infants with congenital heart diseases. However, the nurse should consider any specific feeding challenges the infant may have due to their heart condition and provide appropriate support and guidance.

D) Incorrect. Limiting fluid intake may not be necessary unless specifically advised by the healthcare provider. Infants need sufficient hydration, and fluid intake should be managed based on the infant's overall health and condition.


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Question 39: A client with a congenital heart disease is undergoing diagnostic testing. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of the tests. What is the nurse's best response?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. While diagnostic testing may provide information that informs the choice of a surgical procedure, this is not the primary purpose of the tests.

B) Incorrect. While diagnostic testing may identify complications related to the heart disease, it is not the primary purpose of the tests.

C) The answer is C. Diagnostic testing in congenital heart diseases aims to evaluate heart function, blood flow patterns, and any structural abnormalities. These results guide the healthcare team in developing a comprehensive treatment plan for the client.

D) Incorrect. Most congenital heart diseases cannot be "cured" with diagnostic testing alone. However, the information obtained from the tests is crucial in determining the most appropriate management and treatment options.

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Question 40:

A nurse is caring for an infant with a congenital heart disease who requires prostaglandin E1 therapy. What is the primary purpose of administering prostaglandin E1?

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 does not primarily aim to improve cardiac contractility. It is used for a different purpose in the management of congenital heart diseases.

B) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 is not used to reduce systemic blood pressure. In fact, it may have the opposite effect, causing vasodilation and potentially lowering blood pressure.

C) The answer is C. Prostaglandin E1 is used to promote and maintain the patency of the ductus arteriosus, especially in critical congenital heart defects. This ensures adequate blood flow to systemic circulation until corrective surgery can be performed.

D) Incorrect. Prostaglandin E1 does not decrease heart rate. It primarily affects the patency of the ductus arteriosus.


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