A nurse is assessing a newborn who has a coarctation of the aorta. Which of the following should the nurse recognize is a clinical manifestation of coarctation of the aorta?
Decreased blood pressure in the arms with increased blood pressure in the legs
Increased blood pressure in the arms with decreased blood pressure in the legs
Decreased blood pressure in both the arms and the legs
Increased blood pressure in both the arms and the legs
The Correct Answer is B
A. This option is incorrect as it does not describe the expected blood pressure difference in coarctation of the aorta.
B. Coarctation of the aorta typically presents with higher blood pressure in the upper body (arms) and lower blood pressure in the lower body (legs) due to the obstruction of blood flow distal to the aortic arch.
C. This option is incorrect because while coarctation can lead to decreased perfusion in the lower extremities, it does not typically result in decreased blood pressure in both the arms and legs simultaneously.
D. While increased blood pressure may occur in the arms, the legs would not typically show increased blood pressure in cases of coarctation.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Visualizing the epiglottis with a tongue depressor is contraindicated in suspected epiglottitis due to the risk of triggering airway obstruction.
B. Transporting the child to radiology for a throat x-ray is not a priority and can delay necessary interventions.
C. Obtaining a throat culture is not appropriate in this situation, as airway compromise can occur quickly, and immediate management is crucial.
D. Placing the child in an upright position helps ease breathing and can alleviate distress, which is vital for a child with suspected epiglottitis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Weak pulses are more indicative of reduced cardiac output or other cardiac issues, rather than specifically a large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
B. Cyanosis with crying can occur in various conditions, but it is not a hallmark of a large PDA; it typically presents with other symptoms.
C. Chronic hypoxemia is more associated with severe heart defects or lung conditions, whereas a large PDA may present with other signs first.
D. A systolic murmur is a classic finding in large PDAs due to the left-to-right shunting of blood, making it the most expected manifestation in this scenario.