The nurse is caring for an infant who was recently diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider (HCP)?

Rationale: A. Weight gain of 2.2 lbs (1 kg) in last 48 hours: Rapid weight gain may indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure, which is important to monitor. However, it may not be as immediately concerning as signs that indicate inadequate nutrition or energy compromise. B. Poor oral intake and suckling effort: Poor oral intake and weak suckling are critical indicators of insufficient cardiac output and fatigue from the heart working harder. In infants with congenital heart defects, this can quickly lead to failure to thrive, dehydration, and worsening heart failure, making it the most urgent finding to report. C. Audible heart murmur: A heart murmur is common in many congenital heart defects and may be expected. While it requires ongoing assessment, it is not necessarily an acute sign requiring immediate reporting unless associated with other distress symptoms. D. Heart rate of 162 beats/minute: A heart rate of 162 bpm may be within the normal range for a neonate (typically 120–180 bpm). Although tachycardia should be monitored, it is less urgent than signs of poor feeding and fatigue, which reflect compromised cardiac function.