A nurse is conducting a postoperative assessment on an infant who has just had a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placed for hydrocephalus. Which assessment finding would indicate a malfunction in the shunt?
Movement of all extremities.
Negative Brudzinski sign.
Incisional pain.
Bulging fontanel.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Movement of all extremities is expected and does not indicate a shunt malfunction.
Choice B reason: A negative Brudzinski sign is a normal finding and does not suggest a shunt malfunction.
Choice C reason: While incisional pain is common after surgery, it is not a specific indicator of shunt malfunction.
Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. A bulging fontanel can indicate increased intracranial pressure, which may suggest a shunt malfunction.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Discussing the child's previous history of injury is important, but it does not address the immediate concern of pain management.
Choice B reason: Consulting with a practitioner to determine safe analgesia options is crucial for managing pain while also monitoring the child's variable consciousness levels.
Choice C reason: While it is true that analgesia can mask neurological symptoms, it is essential to manage pain effectively, and the healthcare team can monitor for changes in consciousness.
Choice D reason: Teaching the family about specific medications like benzodiazepines is not the most immediate concern and should be left to the practitioner's discretion based on the child's condition. Pain management and safety are the priorities.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Keeping alarm levels low is important to reduce stress and promote a healing environment, but it is not the most impactful intervention for personalized care.
Choice B reason: Dimming the lights at night helps maintain a normal sleep-wake cycle, which is beneficial but not as specific to the client's individual needs as continuity of care.
Choice C reason: Having the same nurses care for the patient on consecutive days can provide consistency and build trust, which is especially important for a child in critical condition.
Choice D reason: While visits from school friends can be uplifting, they may not be feasible or appropriate for a client in critical condition in the PICU. The priority is ensuring stable and consistent care.
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