NCLEX Practice Test RN Related

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Diagnostic assessment findings for an infant with possible coarctation of the aorta would include:

  • A. A third heart sound
  • B. A diastolic murmur
  • C. Pulse pressure difference between the upper extremities
  • D. Diminished or absent femoral pulses
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: S1 and S2 in an infant with coarctation of the aorta are usually normal. S3 and S4 do not exist with this diagnosis. Either no murmur will be heard or a systolic murmur from an associated cardiac defect will be heard along the left upper sternal border. A diastolic murmur is not associated with coarctation of the aorta. Pulse pressure differences of >20 mm Hg exist between the upper extremities and the lower extremities. It is important to evaluate the upper and lower extremities with the appropriate-sized cuffs. Femoral and pedal pulses will be diminished or absent in infants with coarctation of the aorta.