Pediatric Practice Exam HESI Related

Review Pediatric Practice Exam HESI related questions and content

A child undergoes heart surgery to repair the defects associated with tetralogy of Fallot. What behavior is essential for the nurse to prevent postoperatively?

  • A. Crying
  • B. Coughing
  • C. Straining at stool
  • D. Unnecessary movement
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct behavior that the nurse needs to prevent postoperatively is straining at stool. Straining at stool should be avoided as it can increase intrathoracic pressure, leading to stress on the surgical site. This stress can potentially compromise the surgical repair and increase the risk of complications. Crying, coughing, and unnecessary movement, although important to monitor postoperatively, do not directly impact the surgical site as significantly as straining at stool does. Therefore, the focus should be on preventing straining at stool to ensure the best postoperative outcome for the child.