ATI RN
Pediatric Cardiovascular Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
For the child with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which medication may be given to keep the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) open until surgery can be done?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of pediatric cardiovascular nursing, understanding the management of congenital heart defects like hypoplastic left heart syndrome is crucial. The correct answer to the question is A) Prostaglandin E. Prostaglandin E is given to keep the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) open in infants with critical congenital heart defects, including hypoplastic left heart syndrome, to maintain pulmonary or systemic blood flow until surgical intervention can be performed. Indomethacin and ibuprofen, options B and C, are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are used to close a PDA by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Therefore, they would be contraindicated in this scenario when we want to keep the PDA open. Digoxin, option D, is a medication commonly used in pediatric cardiology to treat heart failure by improving cardiac contractility. However, it is not the appropriate choice for keeping the PDA open in hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Educationally, it is essential for pediatric nurses to understand the rationale behind using specific medications in pediatric cardiovascular conditions to provide safe and effective care to this vulnerable population. Recognizing the pharmacological management of congenital heart defects and the medications involved is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and preparing for potential complications.
Question 2 of 5
Indomethacin is being given to an infant with a patent ductus arteriosus in an attempt to promote closure of the PDA. The nurse caring for this infant becomes concerned about adverse side effects when noticing:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, option A is the correct answer as it indicates adverse effects of indomethacin therapy in an infant with a patent ductus arteriosus. Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can cause decreased urine output due to renal impairment, decreased platelets leading to increased bleeding risk, and abdominal distention as a sign of gastrointestinal issues. Option B is incorrect as increased blood pressure, tachycardia, and decreased oxygen requirements are not typically associated with adverse effects of indomethacin. Option C is also incorrect as increased urine output, increased white blood cell count, and increased reticulocyte count are not typical adverse effects of this medication. Option D is not related to the side effects of indomethacin in the context of treating a patent ductus arteriosus in an infant. Educationally, understanding the potential side effects of medications used in pediatric cardiovascular conditions is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to infants with such conditions. Recognizing and managing adverse effects promptly can prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
After the nurse provides dietary restrictions to the parents of a child with celiac disease, which statement by the parents indicates effective teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) "Our child must maintain these dietary restrictions lifelong." This response indicates effective teaching because celiac disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition where individuals must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet to manage symptoms and prevent complications. By understanding the chronic nature of the disease and the necessity of lifelong dietary restrictions, the parents demonstrate comprehension of the long-term management required for their child's health. Option A is incorrect because celiac disease requires long-term dietary adherence regardless of symptom resolution. Option B is incorrect because dietary restrictions for celiac disease do not cease at adulthood but rather must be followed lifelong. Option D is incorrect as growth and development do not signify the end of dietary restrictions in celiac disease. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to provide accurate and clear information to parents of children with celiac disease to ensure proper management. Emphasizing the lifelong nature of dietary restrictions helps prevent misunderstandings and supports the child's long-term health outcomes. It is essential for healthcare providers to empower parents with the knowledge needed to effectively care for their child's condition.
Question 4 of 5
Cristina, a mother of a 4-year-old child tells the nurse that her child is a very poor eater. What’s the nurse’s best recommendation for helping the mother increase her child’s nutritional intake?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Allow the child to feed herself. This recommendation aligns with the developmental stage of a 4-year-old child. At this age, children are often exploring their independence and autonomy, including feeding themselves. Allowing the child to feed herself promotes self-regulation and independence, which can positively impact her eating habits. Option B) Using specially designed dishes for children may be appealing but does not directly address the issue of poor eating habits. It focuses more on presentation rather than the child's actual eating behavior. Option C) Only serving the child's favorite foods may limit the child's exposure to a variety of nutrients essential for growth and development. It may reinforce picky eating habits and hinder the child's willingness to try new foods. Option D) Allowing the child to eat at a small table and chair by herself may also promote independence but does not specifically target the issue of poor eating habits. It is important to focus on strategies that directly address the nutritional intake of the child. In an educational context, understanding the developmental stages of children is crucial when providing recommendations related to nutrition. Encouraging independence in feeding can foster positive eating behaviors and help establish healthy eating habits early in life. It is essential for nurses to consider age-appropriate strategies to support children and their families in promoting optimal nutrition and growth.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is finishing her shift on the pediatric unit. Because her shift is ending, which intervention takes top priority?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Documenting the care provided during her shift. Documenting care is a critical nursing responsibility as it ensures continuity of care, legal protection, facilitates communication among healthcare team members, and helps in evaluating patient outcomes. By documenting accurately and thoroughly, the nurse contributes to the overall quality of care provided to the pediatric patients. Option A, changing linens on the clients' beds, while important for patient comfort and hygiene, is not the top priority when compared to ensuring that all care provided is documented. Option B, restocking bedside supplies, is also essential but can be done by the incoming shift or other support staff. Option D, emptying trash cans, is a task that can be delegated and does not directly impact patient care or safety. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of time management and prioritization in nursing practice. It emphasizes the significance of documentation as a legal and professional responsibility that cannot be overlooked or delayed. Nurses must prioritize tasks based on patient needs, safety, and the impact on care delivery when managing their workload at the end of a shift.