In the case of an infant with a congenital heart defect, which symptom indicates heart failure?

Feeding difficulties in an infant with a congenital heart defect are a significant symptom that can indicate heart failure. Infants with heart failure may exhibit fatigue and poor feeding because they expend too much energy to feed, leading to struggles such as taking in adequate nutrition. Their body’s inability to efficiently circulate blood can result in insufficient oxygenation and nutrients, causing the infant to tire quickly during feeding sessions.

In contrast, increased appetite would typically suggest that the infant is not facing significant challenges related to heart function. A normal respiratory rate does not indicate heart failure; rather, an increased respiratory rate is often a sign of distress. Reduced sleepiness would suggest that the infant is alert and possibly well-compensated, which contrasts with the tiredness often seen in infants with heart failure. Thus, feeding difficulties serve as a prominent indicator of heart failure in this context.