A nurse is caring for an infant who has tetralogy of Fallot. The infant is crying and is experiencing a hypercyanotic spell. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer morphine subcutaneously.
Apply a face mask supplying 100% oxygen.
Attempt to calm and soothe the child.
Place the infant in a knee-chest position.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Morphine subcutaneously can help reduce anxiety and stress, but supplying oxygen is the priority intervention.
Choice B rationale:
During a hypercyanotic spell ("tet spell"), the infant's oxygen levels drop, leading to cyanosis (blue skin) and distress. Administering oxygen can help improve oxygen saturation and alleviate the spell.
Choice C rationale:
Calming and soothing the child may not be sufficient to address the oxygen saturation issue during a hypercyanotic spell.
Choice D rationale:
Placing the infant in a knee-chest position can help improve blood flow, but administering oxygen should be the initial step.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Drainage in the Hemovac is an expected finding postoperatively and is not as urgent as nonreactive pupils.
Choice B rationale:
Periorbital ecchymosis (bruising around the eyes) is not uncommon after a craniotomy and is not as urgent as nonreactive pupils.
Choice C rationale:
Nonreactive pupils can indicate a neurological emergency, such as increased intracranial pressure or potential damage to the cranial nerves. This finding requires immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Choice D rationale:
Hemoglobin level of 11 g/dL is within a normal range and is not a priority concern.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bulging fontanels are a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which is an abnormal finding in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of neurological impairment, such as lethargy, irritability, or seizures.
Choice B rationale:
Blue hands and feet, also known as acrocyanosis, are a normal finding in newborns who are 4 hr old. This is due to immature peripheral circulation and should resolve within 24 to 48 hr.
Choice C rationale:
Generalized petechiae are a sign of bleeding disorders, infection, or trauma, which are abnormal findings in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of bleeding, such as bruising, hematuria, or melena.
Choice D rationale:
Flaring of the nares is a sign of respiratory distress, which is an abnormal finding in newborns. The nurse should assess for other signs of respiratory distress, such as grunting, retractions, or cyanosis.
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