A nurse is assessing an infant who has hydrocephalus. Which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse expect?
Depressed scalp veins
Sunken anterior fontanels
Bulging eyes
Separated cranial sutures
The Correct Answer is D
A. Depressed scalp veins: This is an incorrect choice. In hydrocephalus, there is increased pressure within the skull due to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This increased pressure typically leads to distended scalp veins rather than depressed ones.
B. Sunken anterior fontanels: This is an incorrect choice. The fontanel, also known as the soft spot on an infant's head, may actually bulge rather than appear sunken in cases of hydrocephalus due to increased intracranial pressure.
C. Bulging eyes: In individuals with hydrocephalus, especially infants and young children, bulging eyes can sometimes occur. The increased pressure inside the skull can affect various structures within the brain, including the optic nerve and the muscles that control eye movement. This can lead to a condition called papilledema, where the optic nerve becomes swollen due to the pressure. Papilledema can cause changes in vision and, in some cases, contribute to the appearance of bulging eyes.
D. Separated cranial sutures: The separation of cranial sutures in hydrocephalus occurs due to the increased pressure from the excess CSF. This pressure can cause the bones of the skull to move apart, leading to visible gaps or widening of the sutures. Clinically, this can be observed through imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I should place the shoulder harness above the level of my baby's shoulders."
This statement is incorrect. Placing the shoulder harness above the baby's shoulders could lead to improper restraint in the event of a crash. The harness should be positioned at or slightly below the level of the baby's shoulders to provide effective protection.
B. "I should place the car seat rear-facing until my baby is 2 years old."
This statement is correct. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants and toddlers ride in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old or until they reach the maximum height and weight limit specified by the car seat manufacturer. This position provides optimal protection for the baby's head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash.
C. "I will place the retainer clip over my baby's abdomen."
This statement is incorrect. The retainer clip, also known as the chest clip, should be positioned at armpit level to secure the harness straps. Placing it over the baby's abdomen could result in serious injuries in the event of a crash.
D. "I should position my baby at a 30-degree angle in the car seat."
This statement is incorrect. Infants should be positioned at a 45-degree angle in their car seats. This angle helps to keep the baby's airway open and prevents the head from flopping forward, which could restrict breathing. Placing the baby at a 30-degree angle may not provide adequate support and protection.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Gently put the tubes back into the child's ears": This is not the correct response. Tympanoplasty tubes are not meant to be reinserted if they fall out. Attempting to reinsert them without proper medical training could cause injury or damage to the child's ears. Therefore, this response should be avoided.
B. "Bring the child to the emergency department immediately": While it's important for the parent to seek medical attention if the tubes fall out, it may not always necessitate a visit to the emergency department, especially if the child is not experiencing any other symptoms. This response might cause unnecessary panic for the parent and may not be the most appropriate course of action.
C. "Notify the provider that the tubes have fallen out": This is the correct response. If the tympanoplasty tubes fall out, the parent should notify the healthcare provider who performed the procedure. The provider can then assess the situation and determine the next steps, which may include scheduling a follow-up appointment to evaluate the child's ears.
D. "The tubes are sutured in place and must be surgically removed": This is incorrect. Tympanoplasty tubes are not sutured in place; they are typically designed to fall out on their own after a certain period of time. Additionally, removal of tympanoplasty tubes usually does not require another surgical procedure.
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