Patient Data Exhibits Based on the results of the echocardiogram, the physician has decided to repair the ventricular septal defect via cardiac catheterization. What should the nurse’s focused assessment include before the cardiac catheterization? Select all that apply.

Choice A reason: Obtaining a history of allergic reactions is crucial because the child will be exposed to various substances during cardiac catheterization, such as contrast dye, which could potentially cause an allergic reaction. Choice B reason: Documenting lying, sitting, and standing blood pressures is important to assess for orthostatic hypotension, which could indicate volume depletion or cardiovascular problems that need to be addressed before the procedure. Choice C reason: Performing a mini mental exam on the child is not typically part of the pre-procedure assessment for cardiac catheterization, especially given the young age of the child. Choice D reason: Determining when the child last ate is essential because the child needs to have an empty stomach to reduce the risk of aspiration during sedation. Choice E reason: Locating and marking the pedal pulses is important to establish baseline data so that post-procedure, any changes in the strength or presence of these pulses can be quickly identified, indicating potential complications. Choice F reason: Measuring the child’s height and weight is generally part of a routine assessment but is not specifically focused on the pre-cardiac catheterization assessment unless dosing of medication or anesthesia is required based on weight.