Question 1
A nurse is caring for an infant who has a congenital heart defect. Which of the following defects is associated with increased pulmonary blood flow?
- A. Tetralogy of Fallot
- B. Transposition of the great arteries
- C. Atrial septal defect
- D. Coarctation of the aorta
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Atrial septal defect
The correct answer is C: Atrial septal defect. Atrial septal defects are associated with increased pulmonary blood flow because they allow blood to flow from the left atrium to the right atrium, leading to increased blood volume in the pulmonary circulation. Tetralogy of Fallot, option A, is associated with decreased pulmonary blood flow due to a narrowing of the pulmonary valve. Transposition of the great arteries, option B, involves a reversal of the aorta and pulmonary artery, leading to separate systemic and pulmonary circulations. Coarctation of the aorta, option D, results in narrowing of the aorta and decreased blood flow to the lower body. Therefore, the correct choice for the defect associated with increased pulmonary blood flow is C: Atrial septal defect.