Author Question: Which information should be included in the nurse's discharge instructions for a child who underwent ... (Read 74 times)

darbym82 · **on:** Jun 27, 2018

Which information should be included in the nurse's discharge instructions for a child who underwent a cardiac catheterization earlier in the day?

a. The pressure dressing is changed daily for the first week.
b. The child may soak in the tub beginning tomorrow.
c. Contact sports can be resumed in 2 days.
d. The child can return to school on the third day after the procedure.

Question 2

Which postoperative intervention should be questioned for a child after a cardiac catheterization?

a. Continue intravenous (IV) fluids until the infant is tolerating oral fluids.
b. Check the dressing for bleeding.
c. Assess the peripheral circulation on the af-fected extremity.
d. Keep the affected leg flexed and elevated.

Briannahope · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 27, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
The child can return to school on the third day after the procedure. It is important to emphasize follow-up with the cardiologist. The day after the cardiac catheterization, the pressure dressing is removed and replaced with a Band-Aid. The catheter insertion site is assessed daily for healing. Any bleeding or sign of infection, such as drainage, must be reported to the cardiologist. Bathing is limited to a shower, sponge bath, or a brief tub bath (no soaking) for the first 1 to 3 days after the procedure. Strenuous exercise such as contact sports, swimming, or climbing trees is avoided for up to 1 week after the procedure.

Answer to Question 2

D
The child should be positioned with the affected leg straight for 4 to 6 hours after the procedure. IV fluid administration continues until the child is taking and retaining adequate amounts of oral fluids. The insertion site dressing should be observed frequently for bleeding. The nurse should also look under the child to check for pooled blood. Peripheral perfusion is monitored after catheterization. Distal pulses should be palpable, although they may be weaker than in the contralateral extremity.