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 D
Explanation
A. "You should give your child aspirin if they report pain at the site."
This statement is incorrect. Aspirin is a blood-thinning medication that can increase the risk of bleeding, which is particularly concerning after a cardiac catheterization procedure. It is not recommended to administer aspirin unless specifically instructed by the healthcare provider.
B. "You can remove the pressure dressing 8 hours after the procedure."
This statement is incorrect. The pressure dressing applied after a cardiac catheterization procedure is typically left in place for a specific period of time, as determined by the healthcare provider. The dressing helps prevent bleeding at the insertion site. It is essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the timing of dressing removal.
C. "Your child can soak in the bathtub 24 hours after the procedure."
This statement is incorrect. Immersing the insertion site in water, such as soaking in a bathtub, should be avoided for a certain period after a cardiac catheterization procedure to reduce the risk of infection. The healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on when it is safe for the child to bathe or shower.
D. "Your child should avoid strenuous physical activities for several days."
This statement is correct. After a cardiac catheterization procedure, it is typically recommended to avoid strenuous physical activities for a specified period to allow the insertion site to heal properly and reduce the risk of complications such as bleeding or hematoma formation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Administer packed red blood cells transfusion (PRBC):
While anemia may also be a concern in leukemia, the primary issue here is thrombocytopenia, not anemia. Administering packed red blood cells transfusion would address anemia, not the low platelet count.
B. Avoid taking rectal temperatures:
This is the correct option. Taking rectal temperatures carries the risk of causing bleeding or trauma, especially in individuals with thrombocytopenia. It is essential to avoid invasive procedures or activities that may increase the risk of bleeding in a patient with a low platelet count.
C. Place child in protective environment precautions:
Protective environment precautions, also known as reverse isolation, are typically implemented for patients who are immunocompromised to protect them from exposure to infectious agents. While patients with leukemia may be immunocompromised, the low platelet count is the primary concern here, not infection risk.
D. Swab the oral cavity with viscous lidocaine:
Swabbing the oral cavity with viscous lidocaine is not indicated for thrombocytopenia. Lidocaine may have local anesthetic properties but does not address the underlying issue of low platelet count.
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