A nurse on a cardiac care unit is caring for a preschooler who has a history of congenital mitral stenosis. Which of the following statements indicates that the client is at risk for developing rheumatic carditis?

Choice A reason: This statement does not indicate a risk for rheumatic carditis, but rather a possible respiratory infection or asthma. Rheumatic carditis is an inflammatory condition of the heart valves that can result from untreated streptococcal pharyngitis.

Choice B reason: This statement does not indicate a risk for rheumatic carditis, but rather a sign of heart failure. Dyspnea, tachypnea, and hypoxia are common manifestations of heart failure in children with congenital heart defects.

Choice C reason: This statement does not indicate a risk for rheumatic carditis, but rather a normal finding for a client who has an IV access. A peripheral saline lock is used to administer fluids and medications as needed, and it should be monitored for signs of infection, infiltration, or phlebitis.

Choice D reason: This statement indicates a risk for rheumatic carditis, as lower extremity edema and decreased skin pigmentation are signs of erythema marginatum, a characteristic rash that occurs in some cases of rheumatic fever. Erythema marginatum is a pink or red rash that spreads from the trunk to the extremities, and it may fade and reappear with changes in temperature.

Choice A reason: Bleeding precaution is indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, as it reduces the risk of hemorrhage and injury. The nurse should monitor the child for signs of bleeding, such as petechiae, ecchymosis, epistaxis, hematuria, and melena. The nurse should also avoid invasive procedures, use soft-bristled toothbrushes, apply pressure to venipuncture sites, and administer platelet transfusions as prescribed.

Choice B reason: Droplet precaution is not indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, unless the child has a respiratory infection that is transmitted by droplets. Droplet precaution involves wearing a mask when within 3 feet of the child, and placing the child in a private room or with a roommate who has the same infection.

Choice C reason: Neutropenic precaution is indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low neutrophil count, as it reduces the risk of infection and sepsis. Neutropenic precaution involves placing the child in a private room with positive pressure airflow, wearing gloves, gown, and mask when entering the room, and restricting visitors who are ill or immunocompromised.

Choice D reason: Contact precaution is not indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, unless the child has a skin or wound infection that is transmitted by direct or indirect contact. Contact precaution involves wearing gloves and gown when entering the room, and placing the child in a private room or with a roommate who has the same infection.