Question

The nurse can help reduce the risk of thrombi in the child with valvular heart disease by: A. Performing passive range-of-motion exercises B. Applying elastic wraps to the lower extremities C. Providing age-appropriate sedentary activities D. Offering additional fluids to prevent dehydration

Short answer

Answer: B. Applying elastic wraps to the lower extremities

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the problem

In order to solve this problem, it is crucial to know what thrombi and valvular heart diseases are. Thrombi are blood clots that form within blood vessels, and valvular heart disease involves damage or defects to one of the heart's four valves, which maintain the direction of blood flow within the heart.

Analyzing the options

Now let us analyze each option: A. Performing passive range-of-motion exercises B. Applying elastic wraps to the lower extremities C. Providing age-appropriate sedentary activities D. Offering additional fluids to prevent dehydration

Evaluate Option A

Performing passive range-of-motion exercises helps in maintaining joint mobility and preventing stiffness but does not directly address the prevention of thrombi formation.

Evaluate Option B

Applying elastic wraps to the lower extremities can help improve venous blood return, reducing the risk of blood pooling and clot formation. This is a more appropriate intervention for preventing thrombi in a child with valvular heart disease.

Evaluate Option C

Providing age-appropriate sedentary activities may offer some limited benefits for overall well-being, but it does not directly help in preventing thrombi formation.

Evaluate Option D

Offering additional fluids to prevent dehydration may help to maintain blood volume and blood pressure, but dehydration is not the primary cause of thrombi formation in valvular heart disease.

Choose the correct option

Based on the evaluation above, the best action a nurse can take to help reduce the risk of thrombi in a child with valvular heart disease is: B. Applying elastic wraps to the lower extremities

Key concepts

Thrombi Prevention

Preventing the formation of thrombi, or blood clots, is crucial in managing various health conditions, including valvular heart disease. Blood clots can impede healthy blood flow and lead to serious complications. To reduce thrombi risk, certain interventions prove effective. One effective method is the application of elastic wraps or compression stockings. These help in improving blood circulation in the lower extremities and prevent blood from pooling, which can lead to clot formation. Encouraging regular movement, even simple leg exercises while sitting or in bed, supports blood flow. Hydration also plays a role; while it doesn't directly prevent clots, staying hydrated maintains blood volume and helps the heart function efficiently.

Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease involves the malfunction of one or more of the heart's valves. These valves are vital for maintaining unidirectional blood flow through the heart's chambers. When they do not function correctly, it can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and even heart failure. Common causes include congenital defects, infections like rheumatic fever, or degenerative changes with aging. Managing this condition often requires careful monitoring of cardiovascular function and sometimes surgical interventions to repair or replace faulty valves. Maintaining good cardiovascular health through diet, regular check-ups, and medication when prescribed, is essential in managing valvular heart disease.

Pediatric Nursing

Pediatric nursing is a specialized area of nursing practice focused on the medical needs and care of infants, children, and adolescents. This field emphasizes the unique physiological and developmental needs of children, differing significantly from adults. Pediatric nurses play crucial roles in health education, supporting families, and administering appropriate medical treatments. They must also have strong communication skills to effectively interact with children at various developmental stages. Techniques such as age-appropriate explanations, play therapy, and specialized pediatric assessment tools help make the healthcare experience less intimidating and more supportive for young patients.

Range of Motion Exercises

Range of motion exercises are activities designed to improve flexibility and mobility of the joints. These are essential in maintaining joint health, especially after surgery, injury, or periods of immobility. There are three primary types of these exercises: passive, active, and active-assistive.

• **Passive range of motion exercises** require assistance to move the joint, either from a therapist or a mechanical device.
• **Active range of motion exercises** are performed by the patient independently, without external aid.
• **Active-assistive exercises** allow the patient to move the joint with some assistance when needed.

These exercises not only enhance joint function but also promote circulation, which can deter clot formation. They are a fundamental component of rehabilitation and chronic disease management, ensuring overall better physical health.