The nurse provides discharge instructions to the parents of a ...

[bobbie]

The nurse provides discharge instructions to the parents of a child recovering from surgery to repair a congenital heart defect. What statement indicates that teaching provided to these parents has been effective?
 
  A) Our child should be restricted in play and activity for at least 6 months.
  B) Our child will need to take antibiotics prior to having dental surgery.
  C) Fluids should be restricted to maximize lung function.
  D) Our child should not return to normal activities for at least 2 years.

Question 2

The nurse is planning care for a pediatric client recovering from surgery to repair a congenital heart defect. Which intervention should the nurse include to support the client's fluid status?
 
  A) Encourage fluids.
  B) Limit fluids.
  C) Monitor pain.
  D) Maintain intravenous therapy until day before discharge.

[ryansturges]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: B

Since the child is at risk for infective endocarditis, prophylactic antibiotics are indicated for invasive procedures. The child should not be restricted in play and activities for at least 6 months. The child should not restrict fluids. The parents should be encouraged to have the child live a normal life and not be restricted for 2 years.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: A

The child should be encouraged to begin oral fluids and nutrition when permitted. Although oral fluids are rarely limited, intake and output should be carefully assessed. Fluids and antibiotics should be provided as ordered until the child's oral intake is normal. Once normal, the line can be converted to a heparin or saline lock. Both intake and output should be monitored. While assessing the child's pain is important, this is not an intervention to support the client's fluid status.