Which of the following interventions is not recommended for a pediatric patient with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?
Cardioversion
Vagal Maneuvers
Adenosine
Continue to monitor for 30 minutes
The Correct Answer is A
Cardioversion involves delivering an electrical shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. While it may be used for certain types of tachyarrhythmias in adults, it is typically not the first-line treatment for SVT in pediatric patients.
In pediatric patients with SVT, the initial management options often include:
B. Vagal maneuvers: Non-invasive maneuvers like the Valsalva maneuver or carotid sinus massage can be attempted to try and break the SVT rhythm.
C. Adenosine: Adenosine is often the first-line medication used for terminating SVT in pediatric patients. It is given intravenously in a controlled setting under medical supervision.
D. Continue to monitor for 30 minutes: After successful termination of SVT, it's important to continue monitoring the child's heart rhythm and vital signs to ensure that the arrhythmia does not recur.
In pediatric patients, the decision to use cardioversion is usually reserved for situations where other methods, including medications and vagal maneuvers, have not been successful or if the child is unstable. Cardioversion in pediatric patients is performed under sedation or anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
Therefore, while cardioversion may be used in some cases, it is not the initial or most common approach for treating SVT in pediatric patients, making option A the answer to the question.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome is a complex congenital heart defect in which the left side of the heart (left ventricle and aorta) is underdeveloped, making it unable to pump oxygenated blood effectively to the body. The treatment of HLHS typically involves a series of surgical interventions because it cannot be cured with a single surgery. The ultimate goal of treatment is to provide palliative care, which means managing the condition to improve the child's quality of life while waiting for a heart transplant. The surgical procedures are typically performed in stages, with the first surgery usually performed shortly after birth, followed by additional surgeries as the child grows.
Option B is not accurate because HLHS cannot be cured with a single surgery, and creating an opening between the atria and ventricles (e.g., the Norwood procedure) is one step in the staged surgical treatment, but it doesn't completely "cure" the condition.
Option C is not accurate because HLHS is primarily characterized by an underdeveloped left ventricle and aorta, not the displacement of the pulmonary and aortic arteries.
Option D refers to the use of prostaglandin to maintain a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and improve blood flow to the lungs, which can be part of the initial management of HLHS but is not a definitive treatment. Prostaglandin is used to stabilize the infant before surgical interventions are performed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The symptoms described, including vomiting, coughing, and looking flushed, are concerning for a potentially severe allergic reaction, which can be life-threatening. This could be indicative of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Administering CPR (Option D) is not appropriate at this point unless the child becomes unresponsive and stops breathing, which would be a very late sign of anaphylaxis. In such a situation, CPR would be necessary, but the primary focus should be on calling 911 and obtaining immediate medical assistance.
Option A, giving Benadryl, can be part of the treatment for an allergic reaction, but it should not be the first or only action taken in a severe allergic reaction. Immediate medical evaluation and potential administration of epinephrine are more critical.
Option B, recommending symptomatic treatment for the cough, is not appropriate in this situation. The priority is recognizing the potential severity of the allergic reaction and seeking immediate emergency care.
Therefore, the nurse should advise the mother to call 911 to ensure that the child receives prompt medical attention and assessment for anaphylaxis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today