CHF in an infant is characterized by all Except
**Core Concept**
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in infants is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to decreased cardiac output and increased pressure in the heart and lungs. This can be due to various causes such as congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathy, or other cardiac anomalies.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In infants, CHF is often characterized by signs of respiratory distress, such as tachypnea, grunting, and retractions, due to pulmonary congestion. The infant's heart rate may be elevated, and they may exhibit poor feeding, lethargy, and failure to gain weight. The liver may be enlarged due to congestion, and the infant may have a gallop rhythm on auscultation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Not a characteristic of CHF in infants. In fact, infants with CHF often have a normal or even decreased blood pressure due to decreased peripheral resistance and decreased cardiac output.
**Option B:** A common symptom of CHF in infants, as they often exhibit signs of respiratory distress such as tachypnea and grunting.
**Option C:** A characteristic of CHF in infants, as they often have a gallop rhythm on auscultation due to increased pressure in the heart.
**Option D:** Not a characteristic of CHF in infants. In fact, infants with CHF often have a decreased appetite and may exhibit poor feeding.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that CHF in infants can be caused by various underlying conditions, and a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause. A high index of suspicion and prompt recognition of symptoms can lead to timely intervention and improved outcomes.
**Correct Answer: A. Not a characteristic of CHF in infants.**