An infant is diagnosed with transposition of the great vessels.Prostaglandin E1 is given intravenously.The parents ask how long the child will remain on the prostaglandin E1.What is the appropriate response by the nurse?
A) Prostaglandin E1 will be given intermittently until corrective surgery is performed.
B) Prostaglandin E1 will be given continuously until corrective surgery is performed.
C) Prostaglandin E1 will be given continuously throughout the preoperative and postoperative periods until the child is stable.
D) Prostaglandin E1 will be given intermittently throughout the preoperative and postoperative periods until the child is stable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To provide intracardiac mixing for a child with transposition of the great arteries,intravenous prostaglandin E1 is administered continuously to keep the ductus arteriosus open to temporarily increase blood mixing and provide an oxygen saturation of 75% or to maintain cardiac output until surgery.It is discontinued after surgery.

An Infant Is Diagnosed with Transposition of the Great Vessels