A nurse is preparing to administer digoxin to an infant with a congenital heart disease. What is the nurse's priority action before giving the medication?
Check the infant's apical heart rate.
Measure the infant's blood pressure.
Assess the infant's capillary refill time.
Observe for any signs of respiratory distress.
The Correct Answer is A
A) The answer is A. Before administering digoxin, the nurse should check the infant's apical heart rate for a full minute. Digoxin is a medication used to improve cardiac contractility, and knowing the heart rate helps ensure the medication is given safely and at the correct dose.
B) Incorrect. While measuring blood pressure is essential in some cases, it is not the priority action before administering digoxin.
C) Incorrect. Assessing capillary refill time is an important part of the overall assessment, but it is not the priority action before giving digoxin.
D) Incorrect. While observing for respiratory distress is crucial, it is not the priority action in this specific scenario of preparing to administer digoxin. Checking the heart rate takes precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The answer is A. Mild cyanosis during crying or feeding can indicate inadequate oxygenation and increased workload on the heart. This symptom requires immediate intervention to ensure proper oxygen supply to vital organs.
B) Incorrect. Occasional heart palpitations may not be a severe concern and may not require immediate intervention. However, the healthcare provider should still be notified for further evaluation.
C) Incorrect. Fatigue after physical activity is common in clients with congenital heart diseases due to compromised cardiac function. Although it needs attention, it does not require immediate intervention.
D) Incorrect. A heart murmur audible throughout systole and diastole can indicate structural heart abnormalities. While it requires medical follow-up, it may not need immediate intervention unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This option is incorrect. Not all medications are safe to use during pregnancy, and some may pose risks to the developing baby, including potential congenital heart defects.
B) Correct answer. Some medications, like certain antihypertensives and medications with known teratogenic effects, can increase the risk of congenital heart diseases if used during pregnancy. It is essential for pregnant individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage any medical conditions and choose safe medications during pregnancy.
C) This option is incorrect. Some vaccinations are recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby from certain infections. Properly administered vaccinations during pregnancy are generally safe and do not significantly impact heart development.
D) This option is incorrect. Medication use during pregnancy can have various effects on the developing baby, and certain medications may increase the risk of congenital heart diseases.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.