A client asks the nurse about the impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on the risk of congenital heart diseases. What should the nurse explain?

A) Incorrect. Left-sided heart failure typically presents with symptoms such as pulmonary congestion, shortness of breath, and crackles in the lungs, rather than cyanosis and clubbing.

B) Incorrect. Right-sided heart failure can cause peripheral edema and jugular vein distention, but it does not usually lead to cyanosis and clubbing.

C) The answer is C. Cyanosis and clubbing of the fingers are signs of chronic hypoxia, which can occur in pulmonary hypertension. This condition increases pulmonary vascular resistance and impairs oxygenation, leading to these characteristic symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Peripheral vascular disease primarily affects the arteries and veins in the extremities and is not directly related to cyanosis and clubbing of the fingers.

A) The answer is A. Weight gain of 1 pound in a week can indicate fluid retention, which may be a sign of digoxin toxicity. The nurse should instruct the client to report this symptom immediately to prevent further complications.

B) Incorrect. A heart rate below 100 beats per minute is within the normal range for most clients. A lower heart rate is often expected in clients taking digoxin, and it does not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

C) Incorrect. Occasional episodes of diarrhea are common side effects of digoxin. The client should report persistent or severe diarrhea, but occasional episodes may not be a cause for immediate concern.

D) Incorrect. Mild swelling of the ankles after activity is not directly related to digoxin use. The nurse should monitor the client's ankles for any worsening swelling, but it does not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

The answer is A