Which condition requires immediate medical treatment in newborns to prevent severe complications?

Prepare for the Pediatric Cardiovascular Disorders Test. Use our test material with detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Transposition of the great arteries is a critical congenital heart defect that requires immediate medical intervention due to the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the body. In this condition, the two main arteries carrying blood away from the heart are switched, which means that oxygen-rich blood is sent back to the body without circulating through the lungs, while oxygen-poor blood is sent to the lungs.

If not treated promptly, this condition can lead to severe complications, including organ failure and death, as the body is deprived of oxygenated blood. Immediate interventions, such as administering prostaglandin E1 to maintain ductal patency or preparing for surgical intervention, are crucial to improve the infant's oxygenation and blood flow.

In contrast, while the other conditions mentioned can also have clinical significance and may require monitoring or treatment, they typically do not necessitate the same urgent response to prevent immediate and severe deterioration in the newborn's condition. Thus, the urgency associated with transposition of the great arteries highlights the need for immediate medical treatment in newborns.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy