A nurse is caring for a hospitalized 2-year-old child who has a tantrum when a parent leaves. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Machine-like murmur:

A machine-like murmur typically refers to a continuous murmur, which can be heard throughout systole and diastole. While machine-like murmurs can be associated with certain cardiac conditions, such as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), they are not typically heard in coarctation of the aorta. In coarctation of the aorta, a systolic ejection murmur may be heard over the upper left sternal border due to turbulent blood flow across the narrowed aortic segment.

B. Severe cyanosis:

Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to decreased oxygenation of the blood. While cyanosis can occur in various congenital heart defects, such as tetralogy of Fallot, it is not a characteristic manifestation of coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta typically results in decreased blood flow to the lower extremities rather than mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.

C. Decreased blood pressure in the legs:

This is the correct choice. Coarctation of the aorta is characterized by narrowing of the aorta, which leads to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities. Consequently, blood pressure measurements in the legs may be lower compared to those in the arms. This finding is often a key indicator of coarctation of the aorta.

D. Pulmonary edema:

Pulmonary edema refers to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs and is typically associated with conditions such as heart failure or fluid overload. While some congenital heart defects may lead to heart failure and subsequent pulmonary edema, coarctation of the aorta does not directly cause pulmonary edema. Instead, it primarily affects blood flow to the lower extremities due to the narrowing of the aorta.

A. "You should begin to manipulate the infant's bedtime based on the hospital's visiting hours."

This statement is incorrect. Manipulating the infant's bedtime based on hospital visiting hours may disrupt the infant's regular sleep schedule, potentially causing discomfort and distress. It's important to maintain the infant's routine as much as possible to promote comfort and well-being.

B. "You should bring the infant's favorite blanket to the hospital."

This statement is correct. Bringing the infant's favorite blanket or comfort item can provide familiarity and comfort during the hospital stay. Having familiar items from home can help soothe the infant and reduce anxiety associated with the new environment.

C. "You should read the child a story about hospitalization."

This statement is correct. Reading a story about hospitalization to the child can help prepare them for the upcoming experience and alleviate fear or anxiety. Choosing age-appropriate books that explain what to expect during a hospital stay can help normalize the experience and provide reassurance to the infant and parents.

D. "You will need to go home when it is not visiting hours."

This statement is incorrect. Parents are typically allowed to stay with their infant throughout the hospitalization, especially in the case of pediatric patients. Family presence is important for providing comfort and support to the infant and facilitating bonding during the hospital stay.