A 5yearold child who had a repair for transposition of the great arteries shortly
after birth is growing normally and has been asymptomatic since the surgery. The primary care nurse practitioner notes mild shortness of breath with exertion and, upon questioning, learns that the child has recently complained of dizziness. What will the nurse practitioner do?

Question

A 5­year­old child who had a repair for transposition of the great arteries shortly
after birth is growing normally and has been asymptomatic since the surgery. The primary care nurse practitioner notes mild shortness of breath with exertion and, upon questioning, learns that the child has recently complained of dizziness. What will the nurse practitioner do?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of mild shortness of breath and dizziness may indicate a potential problem with the child's heart, especially since he has a history of transposition of the great arteries. Referring the child to a cardiologist immediately for evaluation would be the best course of action. Ordering an echocardiogram and chest radiograph may be necessary, but the cardiologist should make that decision. Pulmonary function testing is unlikely to be helpful in this situation. Reassuring the parent without evaluation would not be appropriate.

A 5­year­old Child Who Had a Repair for Transposition of the Great

A 5yearold Child Who Had a Repair for Transposition of the Great