ATI RN
Cardiovascular Conditions Pediatrics Test Bank Questions Free Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from a myocardial infarction. The client’s pulmonary artery pressure reading is 25/12 mm Hg. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take first is to compare the current pulmonary artery pressure reading with previous readings (Option A). This is crucial as it provides a baseline for comparison and helps in understanding the trend of the client's condition post-myocardial infarction. This action is essential for effective monitoring and management of cardiovascular conditions in pediatrics. Option B, increasing the intravenous fluid rate because the readings are low, is incorrect as solely relying on numerical values without proper assessment can lead to potential harm. Pulmonary artery pressure readings are not solely indicative of fluid status, and other factors need to be considered. Option C, immediately notifying the healthcare provider of the elevated pressures, is incorrect because the pressure readings are not significantly elevated to warrant urgent notification. It is important to assess the situation thoroughly before escalating to the healthcare provider. Option D, documenting the finding as the only action, is incorrect because action should be taken based on the assessment findings before documentation. In healthcare, timely and appropriate interventions are crucial in providing safe and effective care. Educationally, understanding how to interpret and prioritize assessments in cardiovascular conditions is vital for nursing practice. By comparing current readings with previous ones, nurses can make informed decisions and collaborate effectively with the healthcare team to optimize patient outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
José is a 4-year-old child scheduled for a cardiac catheterization. What should be included in preoperative teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Preoperative teaching should always be directed at the child’s stage of development. The caregivers also benefit from the same explanations. The parents may ask additional questions, which should be answered, but the child needs to receive the information based on developmental level. Preschoolers will not understand in-depth descriptions and should be prepared close to the time of the cardiac catheterization.
Question 3 of 5
Which defect results in increased pulmonary blood flow?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Atrial septal defect results in increased pulmonary blood flow. Blood flows from the left atrium (higher pressure) into the right atrium (lower pressure) and then to the lungs via the pulmonary artery. Pulmonic stenosis is an obstruction to blood flowing from the ventricles. Tricuspid atresia results in decreased pulmonary blood flow. Transposition of the great arteries results in mixed blood flow.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer a dose of digoxin (Lanoxin) to a child in heart failure (HF). Which is a beneficial effect of administering digoxin (Lanoxin)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In pediatric patients with heart failure, the administration of digoxin (Lanoxin) serves to increase cardiac contractility, improve cardiac output, and regulate heart rate. The correct answer, A) It decreases edema, aligns with the drug's mechanism of action. Digoxin helps the heart pump more effectively, which can reduce fluid buildup in the body, including edema, by improving circulation and reducing congestion in the tissues. Option B) It decreases cardiac output is incorrect because digoxin actually increases cardiac output by enhancing myocardial contractility, improving stroke volume, and overall heart function. Option C) It increases heart size is incorrect because digoxin does not cause an increase in heart size. Instead, it improves the heart's efficiency and function without directly impacting heart size. Option D) It increases venous pressure is incorrect as digoxin does not increase venous pressure. In fact, it can help reduce venous pressure by improving the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, thereby decreasing congestion in the venous system. In an educational context, understanding the beneficial effects and mechanisms of action of medications like digoxin is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients with cardiovascular conditions. By comprehending how digoxin works and its intended outcomes, nurses can administer the medication safely and effectively, monitor for desired effects, and recognize and address any potential adverse reactions promptly.
Question 5 of 5
The parents of a young child with heart failure tell the nurse that they are “nervous” about giving digoxin (Lanoxin). The nurse’s response should be based on which statement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic range. The margin of safety between therapeutic, toxic, and lethal doses is very small. Specific guidelines are available for parents to learn how to administer the drug safely and to monitor for side effects. Digoxin is a frequently used drug, but it has a narrow therapeutic range. Small amounts of the liquid are given to infants, making it easy to overmedicate or undermedicate. Parents may lack the necessary expertise to administer the drug at first, but with discharge preparation, they should be prepared to administer the drug safely.