What is the most appropriate pediatric nursing intervention for a child with a history of frequent tet spells?

For a child with a history of frequent tet spells, keeping emergency medications readily available is essential. Tet spells, or hypercyanotic spells, occur in children with certain congenital heart defects, particularly those involving right-to-left shunts, such as Tetralogy of Fallot. During these spells, there is a dramatic drop in oxygen saturation due to increased right-sided pressures that can lead to cyanosis and potentially life-threatening complications.

Having emergency medications on hand enables healthcare providers to react quickly and effectively to a child experiencing a tet spell. Common treatments may involve beta-blockers or sedatives to calm the child, decrease the metabolic demand, or relax the spasm of the outflow tract. This proactive preparedness can significantly improve patient outcomes during such crises, effectively addressing the immediate risks associated with tet spells.

Other options would not provide the same level of immediate support. For instance, administering IV fluids alone may not address the underlying issue causing the tet spell, encouraging activities that elevate heart rate could potentially exacerbate the situation, and while advocating for surgical intervention is important in long-term care, it does not provide immediate assistance during an acute episode. Thus, option C is the most appropriate intervention in this context.