The nurse is teaching parents about signs of digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity. Which is a common sign of digoxin toxicity?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the signs of digoxin toxicity is crucial as it is a common medication used in the management of cardiovascular disorders in children. The correct answer is B) Vomiting. Digoxin toxicity can present with gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, which can be an early indicator of an overdose. A) Seizures are not a common sign of digoxin toxicity in children. This symptom is more likely to be associated with other medication overdoses or conditions. C) Bradypnea (slow breathing) is not a typical sign of digoxin toxicity. In contrast, digoxin toxicity is more likely to manifest with respiratory distress or other cardiac-related symptoms. D) Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) is actually a common therapeutic effect of digoxin rather than a sign of toxicity. In cases of digoxin toxicity, bradycardia (slow heartbeat) is more commonly observed due to the drug's effects on the heart's conduction system. Educationally, it is essential for nurses and parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity to ensure early detection and prompt intervention. Teaching parents about these signs empowers them to monitor their child's condition closely and seek medical help if they notice any concerning symptoms, ultimately contributing to the safe management of their child's cardiovascular disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: If evidence is noted of cardiac tamponade, which is blood or fluid in the pericardial space constricting the heart, the physician is notified immediately of this life-threatening complication. Increasing analgesia may be done before the physician drains the fluid, but the physician must be notified. Warming blankets are not indicated at this time. Encouraging the child to cough, turn, and breathe deeply should be deferred till after the evaluation by the physician.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the complications of rheumatic fever is crucial. The correct answer is D) Cardiac valve damage. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop after a streptococcal infection, particularly in children. It primarily affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain. Cardiac valve damage is a common and serious complication of rheumatic fever, specifically involving the mitral valve. This damage can lead to valvular insufficiency or stenosis, impacting the heart's ability to effectively pump blood. Option A) Seizures are not a common complication of rheumatic fever. While neurological symptoms can occur in some cases, seizures are not a typical manifestation of this condition. Option B) Cardiac arrhythmias can occur as a result of rheumatic heart disease, but they are not the most common or serious complication associated with rheumatic fever. The primary concern lies in the structural damage to the heart valves. Option C) Pulmonary hypertension is not a direct complication of rheumatic fever. This condition typically arises from other underlying pulmonary or cardiac issues, rather than being a direct result of rheumatic fever. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to recognize the signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever, understand its potential complications, and provide appropriate care and monitoring for affected children. By correctly identifying cardiac valve damage as a significant risk, nurses can intervene early to prevent further cardiac complications and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The posttransplant course is complex. The leading cause of death after cardiac transplantation is rejection. Infection is a continued risk secondary to the immunosuppression necessary to prevent rejection. Cardiomyopathy is one of the indications for cardiac transplant. Heart failure is not a leading cause of death.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In septic shock, the correct answer is B) Increased cardiac output. Septic shock is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to infection, leading to widespread vasodilation and decreased systemic vascular resistance. This causes blood to pool in the peripheral vessels, leading to decreased venous return and subsequent reduction in cardiac output. To compensate for this decrease, the body increases cardiac output by increasing heart rate and stroke volume. Option A) Hypothermia is incorrect because septic shock typically presents with fever or hyperthermia due to the body's response to infection. Option C) Vasoconstriction is incorrect because septic shock is characterized by vasodilation rather than vasoconstriction, leading to decreased systemic vascular resistance. Option D) Angioneurotic edema is incorrect because it is a condition characterized by localized swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and tissue, typically not a feature of septic shock. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of septic shock and its effects on the cardiovascular system is crucial for nurses caring for pediatric patients. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of septic shock, including the compensatory mechanism of increased cardiac output, is essential for prompt identification and intervention to improve patient outcomes.