Coarctation of the aorta, aortic stenosis, and pulmonic stenosis are congenital heart defects in which category?
Obstructive defects
Mixing defects
Decreased pulmonary blood flow
Increased pulmonary blood flow
The Correct Answer is A
Obstructive congenital heart defects involve the presence of narrowing or constriction in various parts of the heart or major blood vessels. In the case of coarctation of the aorta, there is a narrowing or constriction in the aorta, which can obstruct blood flow. Aortic stenosis involves the narrowing of the aortic valve, and pulmonic stenosis involves the narrowing of the pulmonary valve. These defects create obstacles to the normal flow of blood out of the heart, leading to increased pressure within the heart and affecting blood circulation.
The other categories mentioned are:
B. Mixing defects: These defects involve abnormal mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood within the heart, typically due to septal defects like atrial septal defect (ASD) or ventricular septal defect (VSD).
C. Decreased pulmonary blood flow: These defects are characterized by reduced blood flow to the lungs, such as in the tetralogy of Fallot.
D. Increased pulmonary blood flow: These defects involve increased blood flow to the lungs, often due to shunting of blood from the left side of the heart to the right side, as seen in atrial septal defects or ventricular septal defects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Force fluids appropriate in age: It's important to ensure that the child receives an appropriate amount of fluids, taking into consideration their age and weight. This helps prevent dehydration and maintain adequate circulation.
In addition to option A, other important nursing care measures for infants and children with congestive heart failure include:
B. Organize activities to allow for uninterrupted sleep: Infants and children with heart failure may become fatigued easily, so it's important to create an environment that allows for sufficient rest and sleep.
C. Monitor respirations during active periods: Monitoring the child's respiratory rate and effort during active periods helps assess for signs of respiratory distress, which can be a manifestation of congestive heart failure.
D. Give smaller, more frequent feedings to conserve energy: Smaller, more frequent feedings can help reduce the energy expenditure required for digestion, making it easier for the child to eat and conserve energy for growth and development.
The focus of nursing care is to manage the symptoms of heart failure, support the child's overall well-being, and prevent complications. The specific interventions may vary based on the child's age, the severity of heart failure, and the underlying cause.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect where the aorta, the major blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body, is narrowed. As a result, blood pressure tends to be higher in the arms and upper body but lower in the lower body, including the legs. This condition can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and even nosebleeds due to high blood pressure. Weak or absent lower extremity pulses, as well as pale and cool legs, are characteristic physical findings in coarctation of the aorta.
A. Tetralogy of Fallot: This is a different congenital heart defect characterized by a combination of four specific heart defects, including ventricular septal defect, right ventricular hypertrophy, pulmonary stenosis, and an overriding aorta. It typically does not cause the symptoms described in the scenario.
C. Pulmonic Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the pulmonary valve or artery, leading to restricted blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. While it can cause various symptoms, it typically doesn't cause the specific blood pressure discrepancies described.
D. Tricuspid Atresia: This is a congenital heart defect where the tricuspid valve is absent or abnormally developed. It leads to the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the heart. While it can cause cyanosis (bluish skin due to low oxygen levels), it doesn't typically cause the specific blood pressure findings mentioned.

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