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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct answer. Gestational diabetes is associated with an increased risk of congenital heart diseases in the baby. Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy can affect fetal development and increase the likelihood of birth defects, including heart defects.
B) This option is incorrect. While preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication, it is not specifically linked to an increased risk of congenital heart diseases.
C) This option is incorrect. Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland during pregnancy, may pose risks to both the mother and baby, but it is not directly associated with congenital heart diseases.
D) This option is incorrect. Iron deficiency anemia can affect maternal and fetal health, but it is not considered a risk factor for congenital heart diseases.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms and is not the appropriate action in this situation.
B) Incorrect. Deep breathing exercises may not alleviate the symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain. The client should seek medical attention for proper evaluation and management.
C) Incorrect. While resting quietly is generally advisable, it may not be sufficient to address the client's symptoms. Seeking medical attention is essential to identify and manage the cause of the symptoms.
D) The answer is D. Shortness of breath and chest pain can be signs of a cardiac event or worsening of the congenital heart disease. The client should seek medical attention immediately to receive appropriate evaluation and treatment.
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