What is a potential complication of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)?

A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occurs when the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta, fails to close after birth. This can lead to various complications due to the abnormal blood flow that results from the persistence of this vessel. One of the significant potential complications is congestive heart failure.

When the ductus arteriosus remains open, it allows oxygenated blood from the aorta to flow back into the pulmonary artery, leading to increased blood flow to the lungs. This can overwhelm the heart, causing it to work harder than normal. Over time, this increased workload can lead to ventricular hypertrophy and eventually congestive heart failure, characterized by symptoms such as tachypnea, poor feeding, lethargy, and difficulty maintaining adequate oxygenation.

In contrast, the other options do not represent complications associated with PDA. Increased oxygenation and improved feeding tolerance are more appropriate outcomes when blood flow is managed properly, and sleep apnea is not typically linked directly to PDA. Understanding the hemodynamic changes caused by PDA is crucial for identifying potential complications, making it essential for NICU nurses to monitor signs of heart failure in infants with this condition.