Question

The nurse is assessing a child with suspected infective endocarditis. Which of the following would lead the nurse to suspect extracardiac emboli?

A) Wheezing and pruritus
B) Roth's spots
C) Delayed capillary refill
D) Erythema marginatum

Answer 1

When assessing a child for infective endocarditis, the nurse suspect extracardiac emboli by the identification of Roth's spots, which are a sign of emboli reaching the eyes. The correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

During an assessment for suspected infective endocarditis, the presence of extracardiac emboli may be suspected if symptoms such as Roth's spots are observed. These spots are retinal hemorrhages with white or pale centers and can be indicative of emboli that have traveled to the eyes.

Extracardiac emboli are a complication of infective endocarditis where emboli travel from the heart to other parts of the body, resulting in a range of symptoms depending on the location. It's important for the nurse to recognize potential signs of extracardiac emboli in order to provide timely and appropriate care.