ATI RN
Pediatric Cardiovascular Disorders Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
Of the following, the cyanotic cardiac lesion with decreased pulmonary blood flow is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In pediatric pharmacology, understanding pediatric cardiovascular disorders is crucial for nursing professionals. The correct answer to the question is option D, tricuspid atresia. Tricuspid atresia is a cyanotic cardiac lesion with decreased pulmonary blood flow because the tricuspid valve is completely absent in this condition. This results in deoxygenated blood bypassing the right ventricle and flowing directly into the pulmonary circulation, causing decreased pulmonary blood flow. Option A, transposition of the great vessels, involves a mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood due to the aorta arising from the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery arising from the left ventricle, leading to increased pulmonary blood flow. Option B, single ventricle, and option C, truncus arteriosus, both present with increased pulmonary blood flow due to abnormal connections and shunting of blood in the heart. Understanding these distinctions is vital for nurses caring for pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders as it impacts treatment strategies, monitoring, and overall patient outcomes. By comprehensively grasping the pathophysiology of these conditions, nurses can provide effective and individualized care to pediatric patients with cyanotic cardiac lesions.
Question 2 of 5
Severe pulmonary valve stenosis is defined as a peak gradient of
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In pediatric cardiovascular disorders, understanding the severity of pulmonary valve stenosis is crucial for appropriate management. The correct answer, option C (>50 mm Hg), is indicative of severe pulmonary valve stenosis. When the peak gradient across the pulmonary valve exceeds 50 mm Hg, it suggests significant obstruction to blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. Option A (>40 mm Hg) is incorrect because it represents a lower threshold and may indicate moderate stenosis rather than severe stenosis. Option B (>45 mm Hg) is also incorrect as it falls below the critical threshold for defining severe pulmonary valve stenosis. Option D (>55 mm Hg) is incorrect as it exceeds the typical cutoff used to define severe stenosis. Educationally, knowing these specific peak gradient values is essential for nurses caring for pediatric patients with cardiovascular disorders. It guides clinical decision-making, such as the need for interventions like balloon valvuloplasty or surgical correction. Understanding these nuances helps nurses provide optimal care and advocate for timely interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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.