PEDIA - CONGENITAL DEFECTS Flashcards
What are neonatal congenital defects associated with?
They are often linked to maternal health issues during pregnancy.
What are the types of congenital heart diseases mentioned?
Acyanotic Conditions: Ventricular Septal Defect, Atrial Septal Defect, Patent
Ductus Arteriosus, Coarctation of the Aorta.
Cyanotic conditions: Transposition of the great vessels, Tetralogy of Fallot.
What is a left-to-right shunt in acyanotic conditions?
aorta DOES NOT get
unoxygenated blood
It is when blood flows from the pressure left side of the heart to the lower
pressure right side, mixing oxygenated and blood.
What happens in an atrial septal defect?
There is an opening in the septum that causes the blood from the left atria to
be shunted into the right atria due to the septal defect
What is the problem in atrial septal defect?
The problem would be that the right atria receives
more than the usual amount of blood so it becomes
congested.
What is the consequence of increased blood flow to the right atrium in an atrial
septal defect?
It causes congestion and enlargement of the right atrium.
What is the stretch theory in relation to the myocardium?
It initiates the contraction of the heart when the myocardium is stretched due to increased
blood volume.
What is the earliest manifestation of congenital heart defects in infants?
Tachycardia , or a faster heart rate.
What happens to the chambers of the heart when blood becomes congested?
The chambers enlarge and the myocardium expands.
What happens to the right atrium when there is congestion?
It increases in size due to the returning blood.
What compensatory mechanism does the heart employ when there is congestion?
The heart beats faster , resulting in tachycardia.
Why might tachycardia not be alarming to doctors in newborns?
It is a normal response for a newborn’s heart after birth.
How does the heart’s ability to contract change as the baby grows older?
The heart rate increases as the heart compensates for its workload.
Which coronary artery is most dangerous to have ischemia?
Left anterior descending coronary artery.
What is the result of less blood being ejected during heart contractions?
It leads to congestive heart failure.
What characterizes a Ventricular Septal Defect ( VSD )?
It is a hole in the lower septum between the ventricles. AORTA is NOT getting unoxy blood.
What happens to blood flow in the heart due to VSD?
Blood flows from the left ventricle to the right ventricle due to pressure differences.
What is the role of the ligamentum arteriosum in PDA?
It connects the aorta and pulmonary artery and should not remain patent.
What occurs when blood from the right ventricle cannot eject properly in PDA?
Blood returns to the right ventricle, causing congestion.
What is coarctation of the aorta?
It is a narrowing of the aorta that impedes blood flow.
What unique symptoms are observed in babies with coarctation of the aorta?
Strong in the artery and weak pulses in the pedal and femoral
arteries.
What is the primary complication of acyanotic conditions?
Congestive heart failure ( CHF ).
What are the symptoms of left-sided heart failure?
Symptoms include dyspnea , productive cough, and pulmonary congestion.
What does echocardiography help identify?
It identifies the type and size of heart defects.
What should be monitored during cardiac catheterization?
The temperature , color, and pedal pulse of the legs.
What is a potential complication of cardiac catheterization?
Thrombus formation and possible embolism.
What does the retrograde approach in cardiac catheterization mean?
It means the catheter is inserted backward towards the heart.
What is the purpose of introducing contrast media dye during cardiac
catheterization?
To identify obstructions in the heart.
What happens when the catheter enters the left ventricle?
It allows for the administration of contrast media dye to visualize obstructions.
What can thrombus and emboli lead to if not addressed?
They can lead to pulmonary embolism.
What is the risk if the left anterior descending artery becomes obstructed?
It can lead to ischemia and infarction
What is more likely to close spontaneously , ASD or VSD?
ASD has more chances of closing on its own.
What is involved in open heart surgery?
Induction of asystole , hypothermia, and use of a bypass machine.
What is the purpose of cooling the body during open heart surgery?
It reduces the brain’s demand for oxygen.
What is the difference between open heart surgery and closed heart surgery?
Open heart surgery involves defects the heart, while closed heart surgery
involves defects the heart.
What is the objective of preventing congestive heart failure (CHF)?
If CHF can be prevented, surgery can be postponed.
What effect does Digoxin have on heart rate?
It increases the strength of contraction but decreases heart rate.
What should be monitored before administering Digoxin to infants?
Heart rate should be monitored, especially if it is below 100 bpm.
What is the minimum heart rate for children aged 1-4 years before administering
Digoxin?
At least 80 bpm.
What is the minimum heart rate for children aged 5-10 years before administering
Digoxin?
At least 70 bpm.
What is the minimum heart rate for adolescents before administering Digoxin?
At least 60 bpm.
How should fluid output be monitored in patients on diuretics?
By weighing diapers to ensure output exceeds input.
What medication is used to improve cardiac output?
Cardiac glycoside, specifically Digoxin, is used.
What is the purpose of diuretics like Furosemide?
To prevent sodium retention and promote elimination of excess fluids.
What is the function of ACE inhibitors like Captopril?
They prevent the conversion of Angiotensin I to II, controlling blood
pressure.
What is the role of angiotensin II in the body?
It is a vasoconstrictor that promotes sodium and water retention.
What dietary recommendation is made for patients with heart conditions?
A low sodium diet is recommended.
What type of meals are recommended for children with heart conditions?
Small , high-calorie , high-fat meals in frequent intervals are recommended.
What is a recommended activity for children to decrease oxygen demand?
Quiet play activities are recommended.
What causes children to turn blue in cyanotic conditions?
It is due to the body receiving unoxygenated blood.
What happens in transposition of the great vessels?
The aorta receives unoxygenated blood from the right side.
How is the insertion of the aorta and pulmonary artery altered in transposition of the great vessels?
The aorta and pulmonary artery are switched in their positions.
What happens to the oxygen supply after birth in a baby with transposition of the
great vessels?
The baby begins to receive unoxygenated blood in circulation after the umbilical cord is cut.
What happens to a baby with transposition of the great vessels when they cry?
The baby becomes bluer as they cry.
What is the pathway of oxygenated blood in a normal heart?
Oxygenated blood goes from the lungs to the left atrium, then to the left ventricle, and out through the aorta.
What medication is given to open the ductus arteriosus in newborns?
Prostaglandin E2 ( Dinoprostone )
What happens when prostaglandin E2 is administered to a newborn?
It opens the ductus arteriosus , allowing blood from the left ventricle to flow into the
aorta.
What is the Jatene Procedure?
It is an arterial switch operation performed within the first 14 days of life.
Why is the Jatene Procedure performed?
To correct the heart’s structure and ensure proper oxygenation
What is the first step in performing a balloon septostomy?
Inserting a catheter into the inferior vena cava.
What are the components of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)?
- Displaced aorta (overriding)
- Right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH)
- Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
- Pulmonary artery stenosis
What does the acronym DROP stand for in Tetralogy of Fallot?
D - Displaced aorta, R - Right ventricular hypertrophy, O - Opening in the septum (VSD), P - Pulmonary artery stenosis.
What is the consequence of the combined defects in Tetralogy of Fallot?
It causes cyanosis due to inadequate blood flow to the lungs.
Why do symptoms of Tetralogy of Fallot often disappear during quiet moments?
Because the oxygen demand decreases during rest.
What is a common symptom of Tetralogy of Fallot during activity?
Exertional dyspnea with central cyanosis.
What are “ TET “ spells and how are they relieved ?
They are episodes of by , which impedes blood flow to
the legs
What is the Schamroth technique used for?
To assess for clubbing of fingers.
What does clubbing of fingers indicate ?
Chronic peripheral hypoxia
What is the normal angle between nail beds in a healthy finger?
160 degrees.
What happens to the blood in polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia?
The blood thickens, increasing the risk of thrombosis.
What is the normal hematocrit count range in pediatric patients?
35-45 %
What is the purpose of phlebotomy in managing polycythemia?
To dilute the blood and reduce the risk of thrombosis
to increase blood flow to the pulmonary artery
Alpha-adrenergic agonist (Phenylephrine)
What are the overall objectives of nursing care for neural tube defects?
Protect the sac against pressure, injury, and infection
Surgical closure preferred within 24-48 hours after birth
Monitor for signs of infection
What is the cause of neural tube defects?
Inadequate intake of folic acid during pregnancy.
What is spina bifida?
A condition where there is an incomplete closure of the spinal canal.
What is the difference between meningocele and meningomyelocele?
Meningocele contains , while meningomyelocele contains ,
meninges, and spinal cord with nerves.
What is the preferred intervention for spina bifida?
Surgical closure within 24-48 hours after birth.
Why is it important to keep the sac moist in spina bifida patients?
To prevent infection and protect the exposed tissues.
What should be avoided when caring for a patient with spina bifida?
Using a diaper that can cover the sac.
What is the role of positioning in the care of spina bifida patients?
To prevent pressure on the sac and reduce the risk of SIDS.
What should be done if a patient with spina bifida shows signs of infection?
Monitor for signs of infection and notify the healthcare provider immediately.
What is the purpose of monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit counts in patients
with congenital heart defects?
To detect early polycythemia.
What is the significance of maintaining hydration in patients with polycythemia?
To prevent blood thickening and dehydration
What are the two types of fluids recommended for hydration?
Drinkable fluids (liquids) and eatable fluids (solids).
What is the recommended position during TET spells?
Knee-chest position or squatting.
How can respiratory infections affect patients with congenital heart defects?
They can worsen hypoxemia and reduce oxygenation.
What is the overall objective of nursing care for the sac?
To protect the sac against pressure , injury , and infection.
Why should the head be turned to the opposite direction when in a prone position?
To monitor for the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome ( SIDS ).
What position is allowable for a baby with a sac issue?
Prone position, but it must be monitored closely.
What is a potential complication of spina bifida if not managed properly?
Hydrocephalus.
What are some signs of hydrocephalus?
Bulb-shaped head, bulging fontanel, high-pitched cry, and projectile vomiting.
How does increased intracranial pressure (ICP) affect vital signs?
It can cause decreased heart rate, decreased respiratory rate, and hypertension.
What is mannitol used for in medical management?
It is an osmotic diuretic given as an IV drip to promote urination.
What is the purpose of dexamethasone in treatment?
It is a steroid used as an anti-inflammatory.
When is a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt inserted?
To bypass the point of obstruction and prevent CSF buildup in the brain.
What should be done if a baby has a sac issue but no hydrocephalus?
Closing of the sac is the solution.
What is cleft lip and how can it occur ?
Cleft lip can be hereditary or due to excess vitamin ADEK intake.
Does having a cleft lip always mean there is a cleft palate?
No , cleft lip and cleft palate are separate conditions that may exist individually.
What is the rule of 10 for cleft lip surgery?
The baby must be at least 10 weeks old, weigh at least 10lbs, have hemoglobin of
10 grams, and a WBC count <10,000.
What is the ideal age for cleft palate repair?
Around 8-10 months old.
What is the purpose of using a Haberman feeder preoperatively?
It helps infants who cannot suck effectively to feed better.
What position should a baby be in post-op after cleft lip surgery?
Supine position with the head tilted to the side.
What should be used to clean suture lines after feeding?
Cooled boiled water or sterile water.
What is the purpose of Logan’s device after surgery?
To prevent dehiscence and evisceration of the sutures.
What is the difference between cleft lip and cleft palate in terms of intervention?
The difference lies in the post-operative intervention required.
Why is it beneficial to repair cleft lip and cleft palate at different times?
Because as the baby , the cleft becomes smaller, making repair
easier.
What is the main concern when a baby has a cleft palate?
It can hinder speech development.
What is the purpose of pre-operative management for cleft palate?
To prepare the baby for feeding and ensure proper nutrition before surgery.
What should be done if a baby is 1 week old with a cleft palate?
Surgical intervention is needed for uranoplasty/palatoplasty.
What are the signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus?
Bulb-shaped head
Bulging fontanel
High-pitched shrill cry
Projectile vomiting
Macrocephaly (large head)
Distention of veins on the head
Changes in vital signs ( decreased HR, decreased RR, hypertension)
What are the stages of repair for uranoplasty/palatoplasty?
- Soft palate repair at 3-6 months
- Hard palate repair at 6-18 months
Why is it advantageous to not repair cleft lip and cleft palate simultaneously?
Because as the baby grows older, the cleft palate becomes smaller.
When should the repair of the cleft palate ideally occur?
Before speech development begins.
What are the two separate occasions for surgery if a baby is at risk?
- Close the soft palate (3 to 6 months) to lessen aspiration risk.
- Repair the hard palate before speech development (6 to 18 months).
Why is a long surgical procedure dangerous for a baby?
It poses a risk to the development of the brain due to prolonged sedation.
What is a difficulty in post-operative care of uranoplasty and palatoplasty?
There is a between the care plans for post-cheiloplasty and posturanoplasty.
What position should a patient be in after uranoplasty?
The patient should be in a prone position.
Why is the prone position recommended after surgery?
It promotes natural drainage of secretions.
What is nasal twang in speech evaluation?
Nasal twang refers to the sound produced that may indicate issues after surgery.
What is suggested after the surgical repair of the palate?
It is suggested that the baby undergoes speech therapy.
What should be the feeding position post-operatively?
The feeding position should be upright.
Why should a straw not be used for drinking post-operatively?
Using a straw creates negative pressure, increasing the risk of bleeding.
What is atresia of the esophagus?
The lower and upper segments of the esophagus do not connect.
The upper end ends in a blind pouch.
What does the letter “H” represent in H-type tracheoesophageal fistula?
The “ H “ represents the trachea, esophagus, and the fistula forming an H shape.
What are the problems associated with tracheoesophageal fistula?
Aspiration
Nutritional problems due to food not reaching the stomach
What is the priority problem in tracheoesophageal fistula cases?
Aspiration is prioritized over nutritional problems.
How does aspiration occur in tracheoesophageal fistula?
Liquid goes to the trachea instead of the stomach, leading to into the lungs.
What are the symptoms of tracheoesophageal fistula?
Coughing, choking , and cyanosis during feeding
What does polyhydramnios indicate during pregnancy?
It indicates that the baby is not swallowing , leading to high levels of amniotic fluid.
What should suctioning be based on in newborns?
Suctioning should only be done when there is mucus or if the amniotic
fluid is
excessive
green.
What are the 3 C’s during feeding that indicate aspiration in a baby?
Coughing , choking , and cyanosis
What does coiling of the nasogastric tube indicate?
It indicates that the tube is not reaching the stomach due to a lack of connection.