Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

Review Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank related questions and content

Seventy-two hours after cardiac surgery, a young child has a temperature of 101° F. Which action should the nurse take?

  • A. Keep child warm with blankets.
  • B. Apply a hypothermia blanket.
  • C. Record temperature on nurses' notes.
  • D. Report findings to physician.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A temperature of 101°F after cardiac surgery in a young child, especially 72 hours post-surgery, is a concerning finding that should be reported to the physician. This elevated temperature could indicate infection or another complication following the surgery. It is important for the physician to evaluate the child's condition and determine the appropriate course of action. Simply recording the temperature on nurses' notes or keeping the child warm with blankets is not adequate management in this situation. Applying a hypothermia blanket would also not be appropriate as the child is already febrile. The priority in this scenario is to report the findings to the physician for further assessment and intervention.