Essential of Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

Review Essential of Pediatric Nursing Test Bank related questions and content

When palpating the brachial, radial, and femoral pulses of a neonate, the nurse notes a difference in pulse amplitude between the femoral and radial pulses bilaterally. This difference suggests:

  • A. Patent ductus arteriosus
  • B. Coarctation of the aorta
  • C. Diminished cardiac output
  • D. Left to right shunting in the heart. 104 Practice Exam I
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect in which there is a narrowing of the aorta leading to differential pulses in the upper and lower extremities. In neonates, this can manifest as weaker femoral pulses compared to radial pulses due to decreased blood flow to the lower body. This difference in pulse amplitude between the femoral and radial pulses bilaterally is a classic finding in coarctation of the aorta, making it the most likely cause in this scenario. Other conditions like patent ductus arteriosus, diminished cardiac output, or left to right shunting in the heart may not specifically present with this particular pulse amplitude difference.