A nurse is teaching a client about congenital heart diseases. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
A “Congenital heart diseases are acquired during childhood due to infections or lifestyle factors.”
B “These heart conditions are present from birth and may affect the heart’s structure or function.”
C “Some congenital heart diseases can be diagnosed during pregnancy through fetal echocardiography.”
D “Treatment for congenital heart diseases may involve medications, surgery, or other medical interventions.”
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The statement by the client that indicates a need for further education is:
A “Congenital heart diseases are acquired during childhood due to infections or lifestyle factors.”
Explanation:
Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are structural or functional heart abnormalities that are present at birth. They are not acquired during childhood or due to infections or lifestyle factors later in life. Instead, these conditions arise due to problems during the development of the heart and blood vessels in the fetal stage.
Congenital heart diseases include a wide range of defects, such as septal defects (holes between the heart chambers), patent ductus arteriosus, and more complex conditions like tetralogy of Fallot. These conditions result from genetic, environmental, or a combination of factors affecting the fetal heart development. For instance, certain genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, can be associated with congenital heart defects. Environmental factors such as maternal diabetes, exposure to certain medications, or infections during pregnancy may also contribute to the development of CHDs, but they do not “acquire” these conditions after birth.
On the other hand, statements B, C, and D are accurate descriptions of congenital heart diseases:
- B accurately states that these conditions are present from birth and affect the heart’s structure or function.
- C correctly mentions that some CHDs can be diagnosed before birth using fetal echocardiography.
- D appropriately explains that treatment options for CHDs may include medications, surgery, or other medical interventions depending on the severity and type of defect.
In summary, the client’s misunderstanding reflects a need for clarification about the inherent nature of congenital heart diseases versus conditions acquired later due to other factors.