Four weeks after surgical repair of a congenital heart defect, the child experiences shortness of breath, temperature of 102, lethargy, and chest pain. Based on these symptoms, the nurse practitioner should consider prescribing:
warfarin (Coumadin).
IV immune globulin.
IV antibiotics.
aspirin.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Warfarin is used for anticoagulation in certain cardiac conditions but is not the primary treatment for post-surgical infection.
B. IV immune globulin is used for conditions like Kawasaki disease or immunodeficiencies, not typical post-operative infections.
C. IV antibiotics should be considered because the child presents with fever, lethargy, chest pain, and shortness of breath four weeks after heart surgery, which are concerning for post-operative infection or bacterial endocarditis. Prompt initiation of IV antibiotics is critical to prevent serious complications.
D. Aspirin may be indicated for anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet purposes in some cardiac conditions, but it does not treat infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Wearing lap and shoulder belts is essential for all passengers, including children, to reduce injury risk in car accidents.
B. Bicycle helmets significantly decrease the risk of head injury and should always be worn by children while riding.
C. Children under 13 years of age are generally safer in the backseat than the front seat due to airbag risks.
D. Using a multipurpose lighter to ignite fireworks is unsafe and should never be recommended to children. Fireworks should only be handled by adults, and children should be taught not to light fireworks themselves to prevent burns, eye injuries, or accidental fires.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Ear pain alone may persist during the first few days of effective antibiotic therapy and is not an immediate indication to switch antibiotics.
B. Persistent redness of the tympanic membrane can also remain for several days, even with effective treatment.
C. Mobility of the tympanic membrane during pneumatic otoscopy suggests that fluid is not under high pressure, which is not an indication to change therapy.
D. A persistent high fever (≥102°F) after 48–72 hours of antibiotic therapy may indicate treatment failure or infection with a resistant organism. In such cases, the nurse practitioner should consider switching to an alternative antimicrobial or further evaluation.
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