A nurse is caring for a neonate born with a congenital heart abnormality.
To better help the parents understand the impact of this disorder, the nurse begins by describing the unusual flow of blood through the heart which takes what course?

Choice A rationale

Weight-bearing exercises are beneficial for cardiovascular health and bone density, and substituting them with yoga may not address the underlying factors contributing to hypertension.

Choice B rationale

Decreased fluid intake is not generally recommended as it can lead to dehydration, which may negatively impact blood pressure. Increased potassium intake is beneficial, but not reducing fluid intake.

Choice C rationale

Stress reduction is indeed beneficial for managing hypertension, but increased protein intake is not specifically indicated for lowering blood pressure and may have other health implications.

Choice D rationale

Weight reduction and decreased sodium intake are well-established lifestyle changes for managing hypertension. Reducing sodium helps lower blood pressure, and weight loss reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system.

Choice A rationale

True. Xanthine derivatives like theophylline can cause serious adverse effects, including brain damage, when blood levels become too high. It is critical to monitor theophylline levels to prevent toxicity and associated neurological complications.

Choice B rationale

False. If xanthine levels remain within therapeutic ranges, the risk of brain damage is minimized. However, this statement is incorrect as it does not acknowledge the potential severity of the adverse effects linked to elevated theophylline levels.