ATI RN
Pediatric Cardiovascular Disorders Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
For one of the following, total repair is really achieved, with no requirement for long-term follow-up
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the context of pediatric cardiovascular disorders, understanding the long-term management and outcomes of different conditions is crucial for nursing practice. In this question, the correct answer is D) uncomplicated isolated pulmonic stenosis. Total repair with no requirement for long-term follow-up is achievable in uncomplicated isolated pulmonic stenosis cases where the stenosis is effectively corrected without significant residual issues. This is because once the obstruction is relieved, the heart can function normally without the need for ongoing monitoring or interventions. Regarding the other options: A) Atrial septal defects and B) Ventricular septal defects usually require long-term follow-up even after repair to monitor for potential complications such as arrhythmias, valve problems, or residual defects. C) Pulmonic stenosis, while it can be corrected, may still require monitoring for potential restenosis or other complications post-repair. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of different pediatric cardiovascular disorders and their post-repair management. It emphasizes the need for nurses to be knowledgeable about which conditions may require ongoing monitoring and which may not, to provide optimal care for pediatric patients with these conditions.
Question 2 of 5
Depending on the frequency and severity of hypercyanotic attacks in tetralogy of Fallot, all the following procedures are true EXCEPT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In the management of hypercyanotic attacks in tetralogy of Fallot, it is crucial to understand the appropriate interventions to ensure positive outcomes. In this scenario, the correct answer is D) rapid correction with intravenous sodium bicarbonate. This option is incorrect because giving sodium bicarbonate can worsen acidosis, leading to further compromise in patients with tetralogy of Fallot experiencing hypercyanotic attacks. A) Placement of the infant in the knee-chest position is a correct intervention as it helps improve systemic vascular resistance, decrease the right-to-left shunt, and enhance pulmonary blood flow, thereby reducing cyanosis. B) Administration of oxygen is also a correct intervention as it helps increase oxygen saturation levels in the blood, alleviating cyanosis and improving tissue oxygenation. C) Injection of morphine subcutaneously is a correct intervention as it can help reduce systemic vascular resistance, decrease anxiety and distress in the patient, and improve oxygen delivery to tissues. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each intervention is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders. This knowledge equips them with the skills needed to provide prompt and effective care during acute episodes, ensuring better patient outcomes. It also highlights the importance of individualized care and the significance of evidence-based practice in pediatric pharmacology.
Question 3 of 5
In neonates with anomalous total pulmonary venous return and obstruction, the chest x-ray demonstrates
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In neonates with anomalous total pulmonary venous return and obstruction, the chest x-ray demonstrating a prominent subaortic stenosis is indicative of this condition. This is because in this specific cardiovascular disorder, there is an obstruction that causes increased pressure in the left side of the heart, leading to hypertrophy of the left ventricle. This hypertrophy results in a prominent subaortic stenosis visible on the chest x-ray. Option A, heart enlarged, is a common finding in many cardiac conditions but is not specific to anomalous total pulmonary venous return with obstruction. Option B, prominent pulmonary artery, is typically seen in conditions like pulmonary hypertension, not specifically in this neonatal cardiac anomaly. Option C, prominent right ventricle, is more commonly seen in conditions affecting the right side of the heart, such as pulmonary stenosis, but is not a characteristic finding in anomalous total pulmonary venous return and obstruction. Educationally, understanding the specific radiographic findings in pediatric cardiovascular disorders is crucial for nurses caring for these patients. Recognizing these findings can aid in early identification, prompt intervention, and improved outcomes for neonates with complex cardiac conditions. This knowledge enhances nursing assessment skills and supports informed clinical decision-making in the care of pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders.
Question 4 of 5
The MOST common cause of pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients is
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In pediatric patients, the most common cause of pulmonary hypertension is idiopathic pulmonary hypertension (Option A). This is because idiopathic pulmonary hypertension refers to high blood pressure in the lungs with no known underlying cause, which can often be seen in children. Option B, pulmonary venoocclusive disease, is a rare condition characterized by blockages in the small veins in the lungs, more commonly seen in adults. Left-sided valvular heart disease (Option C) typically leads to pulmonary congestion rather than pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Option D) is primarily a disease of adults and is not a common cause of pulmonary hypertension in children. In an educational context, understanding the etiology of pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients is crucial for nurses caring for these children. It aids in early recognition of symptoms, appropriate interventions, and better patient outcomes. By knowing the common causes, healthcare providers can tailor their treatment plans effectively and provide optimal care for pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders.
Question 5 of 5
In urgent situations of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) when symptoms of severe heart failure have already occurred, the initial management is
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In urgent situations of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) with severe heart failure symptoms, the initial management is DC cardioversion. This is the correct choice because in cases where SVT leads to severe heart failure symptoms like hypotension, altered mental status, or signs of shock, immediate restoration of normal sinus rhythm is crucial to stabilize the patient's condition. DC cardioversion provides a synchronized shock to the heart, effectively terminating the arrhythmia and restoring normal rhythm promptly. Option A, adenosine by rapid intravenous push, is commonly used for stable SVT to help identify the underlying rhythm but is not ideal in cases of severe heart failure due to its potential to transiently worsen the arrhythmia or cause hypotension. Option C, verapamil, is contraindicated in patients with severe heart failure due to its negative inotropic effects, which can further compromise cardiac function. Option D, digoxin, is also not recommended in acute situations of severe heart failure associated with SVT, as its onset of action is slower compared to DC cardioversion, which is needed for immediate stabilization. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind the choice of DC cardioversion in this scenario reinforces the importance of rapid intervention in critical pediatric cardiovascular emergencies. It highlights the need for healthcare providers to be prepared to perform urgent procedures like cardioversion to address life-threatening conditions effectively. This knowledge is essential for nurses caring for pediatric patients with cardiac disorders to ensure timely and appropriate interventions in emergency situations.