A nurse is assessing a toddler diagnosed with congenital heart disease. Which symptom should the nurse prioritize as a sign of heart failure in children?

A) Incorrect. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and is not the appropriate action in this situation.

B) Incorrect. Deep breathing exercises may not alleviate the symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain. The client should seek medical attention for proper evaluation and management.

C) Incorrect. While resting quietly is generally advisable, it may not be sufficient to address the client's symptoms. Seeking medical attention is essential to identify and manage the cause of the symptoms.

D) The answer is D. Shortness of breath and chest pain can be signs of a cardiac event or worsening of the congenital heart disease. The client should seek medical attention immediately to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment.

A) This option is incorrect. While heart murmurs can be common and innocent in children, a harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur requires further evaluation.

B) This option is incorrect. A harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur is not a normal finding and should be assessed for potential congenital heart diseases.

C) Correct answer. The presence of a harsh, loud, and continuous heart murmur in a child with recurrent respiratory infections is

concerning for potential congenital heart diseases. It may indicate an abnormal blood flow within the heart, which warrants further evaluation and diagnosis.

D) This option is incorrect. Heart murmurs that are harsh, loud, and continuous are not considered benign and require further evaluation and monitoring.