A nurse is admitting an 8-year-old child to the pediatric unit..
The nurse suspects the child has bacterial meningitis.
Drag words from the choices below to fill in each blank in the following sentence.
The child is at greatest risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
- Seizures: Bacterial meningitis causes inflammation and irritation of the brain's meninges, increasing the risk of seizures as the brain becomes more excitable. Seizures are a common serious complication and require close monitoring and prompt treatment.
- Increased intracranial pressure: Inflammation from meningitis can cause cerebral edema, leading to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Elevated ICP can worsen neurological status and cause brain herniation if untreated, making it a critical complication to watch for.
Rationale for Incorrect Choices:
- Hypothermia: This child presents with fever Temperature 38.7° C (101.7° F), which is typical in bacterial meningitis; hypothermia is not a common risk in this condition.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): Although DIC can occur in severe sepsis, it is less common early in meningitis and not the greatest immediate risk. Additionaly the child has a normal platelet count 350,000/mm³ making DIC unlikely currently.
- Hydrocephalus: Hydrocephalus can develop as a late complication due to blockage of cerebrospinal fluid flow but is less immediate than seizures and increased ICP.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Nausea: Nausea is a common gastrointestinal side effect of cefazolin, a first-generation cephalosporin. It may also be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort. The nurse should monitor for these symptoms and report persistent or severe cases.
B. Hypertension: Cefazolin is not typically associated with elevated blood pressure. Hypertension is not a known adverse effect of this antibiotic, so monitoring blood pressure specifically for this reason is unnecessary unless the child has other risk factors.
C. Increased appetite: Cefazolin does not cause increased appetite. Antibiotics generally do not enhance appetite and may even decrease it due to GI side effects like nausea or dyspepsia.
D. Constipation: Constipation is not a typical side effect of cefazolin. If GI symptoms occur, they are more likely to involve diarrhea or nausea rather than decreased bowel motility.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","F"]
Explanation
A. Capillary refill of 4 seconds is prolonged and indicates poor perfusion, which is a sign of worsening dehydration or possible shock. This requires immediate follow-up.
B. Hyperactive bowel sounds are expected in a toddler with diarrhea and do not indicate immediate deterioration.
C. Cool extremities suggest poor circulation and possible hypovolemia or shock, requiring urgent assessment.
D. Absence of tears is a classic sign of dehydration in a toddler and indicates worsening fluid deficit that needs prompt intervention.
E. Diaper area redness is common with diarrhea and indicates skin irritation, but it is not a priority compared to signs of dehydration or shock.
F. Lethargy is a concerning neurologic change and may indicate severe dehydration or decreased perfusion, requiring immediate attention.
G. Heart rate of 112/min is within expected range for a toddler and does not indicate acute deterioration.
H. Respiratory rate of 26/min is within normal limits for a toddler and is not a priority concern.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.