Which symptom is a clear indicator for a nurse to monitor in infants for congenital heart defects?

Cyanosis is a significant and clear indicator for a nurse to monitor in infants for congenital heart defects. This condition reflects inadequate oxygenation of the blood, which is a critical concern in patients with heart defects. In congenital heart defects, structural abnormalities can disrupt normal blood flow, leading to the potential for oxygen-poor blood to circulate, which subsequently results in a bluish discoloration of the skin, particularly in the lips and extremities.

Monitoring for cyanosis is vital because it can indicate that an infant's heart is not effectively pumping or that there may be issues with the lungs, both of which require immediate attention. Early detection through observation of these symptoms can lead to prompt medical intervention, which is crucial for the child's health and development.

The other symptoms listed, while they may have significance in certain contexts, do not carry the same urgency or direct link to congenital heart defects as cyanosis does. For instance, frequent feeding could suggest different issues such as reflux or gastrointestinal problems rather than a direct sign of cardiac distress.