A nurse is assessing a school-age child with a congenital heart defect. Which symptom should the nurse recognize as a potential indicator of worsening heart failure?

A) This option is incorrect. Family history of congenital heart diseases is a significant risk factor. If a close family member has had a congenital heart defect, the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies may be higher.

B) Correct answer. Exposure to certain infections during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles), can increase the risk of congenital heart diseases in the baby. Rubella is known to be teratogenic, meaning it can cause birth defects.

C) This option is incorrect. While a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is important for overall maternal and fetal health, it is not the primary risk factor for congenital heart diseases.

D) This option is incorrect. While genetic factors play a significant role in the etiology of congenital heart diseases, there are other identifiable risk factors, as mentioned in option B.

A) The answer is A. Prophylactic antibiotics are often given before surgical procedures to prevent infection, especially in clients with congenital heart diseases who may be at a higher risk of endocarditis.

B) Incorrect. While it's essential for the client to take precautions after surgery to reduce the risk of infection, avoiding contact with others for two weeks is not necessary or practical. Instead, following proper wound care and taking prescribed medications as instructed are more relevant measures.

C) Incorrect. Discharging the client early from the hospital does not necessarily reduce the risk of infection. Postoperative care and wound management are crucial to prevent infection, regardless of the length of the hospital stay.

D) Incorrect. All surgical procedures carry some risk of infection. While healthcare providers take measures to minimize this risk, it is not accurate to claim there is no risk at all.