Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Full-length
The nurse is caring for a 2 month-old infant with a congenital heart defect. Which of the following is a priority nursing action?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Infants with congenital heart defects are at increased risk for developing congestive heart failure. Infants with congestive heart failure have an increased metabolic rate and require additional calories to grow. At the same time, however, rest and conservation of energy for eating is important. Feedings should be smaller and every 3 hours rather than the usual 4 hour schedule.