A nurse is caring for a child with a congenital heart disease who is prescribed furosemide (Lasix). What is the nurse's priority action before administering this medication?
Assessing the child's respiratory rate.
Checking the child's blood pressure.
Monitoring the child's electrolyte levels.
Determining the child's weight.
The Correct Answer is A
A) The answer is A. Before administering furosemide, it is essential to assess the child's respiratory rate because this medication is a loop diuretic that can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia. Respiratory rate assessment helps monitor for signs of respiratory distress, especially in clients with heart failure.
B) Incorrect. While monitoring the child's blood pressure is essential, it is not the priority action before administering furosemide. Blood pressure may be affected by the diuretic action of the medication, but respiratory status is more critical to assess initially.
C) Incorrect. Although monitoring electrolyte levels is important when administering furosemide, it is not the priority action. Assessing the child's respiratory rate takes precedence to identify any respiratory distress.
D) Incorrect. Determining the child's weight is relevant in assessing the effectiveness of furosemide therapy. However, it is not the priority action before administering the medication. Respiratory assessment is more critical for immediate intervention.
Questions
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While diagnostic testing may provide information that informs the choice of a surgical procedure, this is not the primary purpose of the tests.
B) Incorrect. While diagnostic testing may identify complications related to the heart disease, it is not the primary purpose of the tests.
C) The answer is C. Diagnostic testing in congenital heart diseases aims to evaluate heart function, blood flow patterns, and any structural abnormalities. These results guide the healthcare team in developing a comprehensive treatment plan for the client.
D) Incorrect. Most congenital heart diseases cannot be "cured" with diagnostic testing alone. However, the information obtained from the tests is crucial in determining the most appropriate management and treatment options.
Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Not all medications can be crushed, and mixing them with the infant's formula may affect their efficacy. Crushing medications should only be done when it is safe and appropriate, as determined by the healthcare provider.
B) Incorrect. Administering medications simultaneously may not be feasible or safe, as some medications require specific intervals between doses. The nurse should follow the prescribed administration schedule to ensure appropriate drug levels in the infant's system.
C) The answer is C. Using a medication organizer can help the nurse and the infant's parents keep track of the complex medication schedule. This helps prevent missed doses and ensures proper administration of each medication.
D) Incorrect. The nurse, along with the healthcare provider, should determine the medication dosing times based on the infant's condition and the prescribed schedule. Leaving the decision solely to the parents may lead to dosing errors or missed doses.
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