What explanation should the nurse provide a mother regarding pulmonic stenosis?

Pulmonic stenosis is characterized by the narrowing of the valve that is situated between the right ventricle of the heart and the pulmonary artery. This narrowing restricts blood flow from the heart to the lungs, which is crucial for oxygenating the blood. When explaining this to a mother, it's important to highlight that this narrowing can lead to increased pressure in the right ventricle as it works harder to pump blood through the constricted valve.

This specific condition can have a range of implications for a child's health, including potential heart enlargement over time due to the increased workload on the heart muscle. However, the core definition and explanation fundamentally relate to the narrowing of the valve itself, making this the correct focus.

Understanding that this anatomical change directly influences blood flow dynamics is key for parents to grasp the condition's mechanics and its potential impact on their child's cardiovascular system.