A child with pulmonary atresia exhibits cyanosis with feeding.On reviewing this child's laboratory values,the nurse is not surprised to notice which abnormality?
A) Polycythemia
B) Infection
C) Dehydration
D) Anemia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Polycythemia is a compensatory response to chronic hypoxia.The body attempts to improve tissue oxygenation by producing additional red blood cells and thereby increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.Infection is not a clinical consequence of cyanosis.Although dehydration can occur in cyanotic heart disease,it is not a compensatory mechanism for chronic hypoxia.It is not a clinical consequence of cyanosis.Anemia may develop as a result of increased blood viscosity.Anemia is not a clinical consequence of cyanosis.

A Child with Pulmonary Atresia Exhibits Cyanosis with Feeding