Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 1319 of 2368
The nurse hears an extra S3 heart sound in an infant with a ventricular septal defect. What does this finding indicate, and what should the nurse do?
- It indicates possible fluid overload, so report it to the provider promptly
- It indicates normal closure of the valves, so continue routine monitoring
- It indicates pericarditis, so document it as a rub
- It indicates reduced compliance of the atria, so no action is needed
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Correct answer: It indicates possible fluid overload, so report it to the provider promptly
An S3 gallop signals volume overload and heart failure. It should be reported promptly.
Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Congenital Heart Defects: Assessment (Recognize Cues). Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026