Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice Questions Related

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A nurse is assessing a 5 year old with a history of heart failure. Which finding indicates that the child has adequate cardiac output?

  • A. Urine output of 30 mL/h
  • B. Heart rate of 120 beats/min
  • C. Cap refill time of 10 to 15 sec
  • D. Bilateral crackles heard on auscultation.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Adequate cardiac output is a measure of how well the heart is able to pump blood effectively to meet the body's metabolic demands. An adequate cardiac output ensures sufficient oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the tissues and organs. One of the most reliable indicators of adequate cardiac output is urine output. A urine output of at least 1 mL/kg/hour, which translates to around 30 mL/hour in a 5-year-old child, indicates adequate perfusion and renal function. In heart failure, decreased cardiac output may lead to decreased renal perfusion, resulting in a decreased urine output, so a stable or increased urine output suggests adequate cardiac output.