The registered nurse is discussing care of an infant diagnosed with a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with a nursing student. The registered nurse determines that the nursing student needs further teaching regarding a PDA when the student states that which circulatory change is a characteristic of this disorder?
This shunting allows oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix.
Blood is shunted to the right side of the heart.
This shunting results in increased pulmonary blood flow.
Blood is shunted to the left side of the heart.
The Correct Answer is D
A. "This shunting allows oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix."
Explanation: This statement is correct. In PDA, the shunting of blood between the aorta and pulmonary artery allows oxygenated and unoxygenated blood to mix, leading to decreased oxygen saturation in the systemic circulation.
B. "Blood is shunted to the right side of the heart."
Explanation: This statement is correct. In PDA, blood is shunted from the left side of the heart (aorta) to the right side of the heart (pulmonary artery).
C. "This shunting results in increased pulmonary blood flow."
Explanation: This statement is correct. PDA leads to increased pulmonary blood flow as a result of the shunting of blood from the aorta to the pulmonary artery.
D. "Blood is shunted to the left side of the heart."
Explanation:
A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect where the ductus arteriosus, a fetal blood vessel that normally closes shortly after birth, remains open. In PDA, blood is shunted from the aorta (left side of the heart) to the pulmonary artery (right side of the heart), resulting in increased pulmonary blood flow. Therefore, the correct statement is that "Blood is shunted to the right side of the heart."
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Test the urine for protein.
Explanation: Testing urine for protein is not a priority nursing intervention in the preoperative period for an infant with hydrocephalus. The focus is on preventing complications related to immobility and positioning.
B. Reposition the infant frequently.
Explanation:
Repositioning the infant frequently is a crucial intervention to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers (bedsores). Infants with hydrocephalus may be at an increased risk of skin breakdown due to prolonged immobility and pressure on specific areas. Repositioning helps distribute pressure, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of skin breakdown.
C. Assess blood pressure every 15 minutes.
Explanation: While monitoring blood pressure is important in certain situations, it is not typically the priority for an infant with hydrocephalus in the preoperative period. The focus is on preventing skin breakdown through repositioning.
D. Provide a stimulating environment.
Explanation: While providing a stimulating environment can be beneficial for infant development, it is not the priority in the preoperative period for an infant with hydrocephalus. The primary concern is addressing potential complications related to immobility, such as skin breakdown.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Edema in the lower extremities:
Incorrect: Edema in the lower extremities is more characteristic of right-sided heart failure. In left-sided failure, pulmonary congestion is more prominent.
B. Ascites:
Incorrect: Ascites, or fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity, is also more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure.
C. Shortness of breath:
Correct Answer: Left-sided congestive heart failure can lead to pulmonary congestion, resulting in difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. This is often observed as increased work of breathing, rapid breathing, or other signs of respiratory distress in infants.
D. Hepatomegaly:
Incorrect: Hepatomegaly, or enlargement of the liver, is another manifestation more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure.
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