Pediatric HESI Quizlet Related

Review Pediatric HESI Quizlet related questions and content

The nurse is conducting an admission assessment of an 11-month-old infant with CHF who is scheduled for repair of restenosis of coarctation of the aorta that was repaired 4 days after birth. Findings include blood pressure higher in the arms than the lower extremities, pounding brachial pulses, and slightly palpable femoral pulses. What pathophysiologic mechanisms support these findings?

  • A. The aortic semilunar valve obstructs blood flow into the systemic circulation
  • B. The lumen of the aorta reduces the volume of the blood flow to the lower extremities
  • C. The pulmonic valve prevents adequate blood volume into the pulmonary circulation
  • D. An opening in the atrial septum causes a murmur due to a turbulent left to right shunt
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The findings are consistent with coarctation of the aorta, where narrowing of the aorta leads to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities. This results in higher blood pressure in the arms compared to the lower extremities, pounding brachial pulses, and slightly palpable femoral pulses. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the pathophysiological mechanisms of coarctation of the aorta, which specifically involves narrowing of the aortic lumen reducing blood flow to the lower extremities.