For which condition would the nurse commonly assess in an infant following surgery for a myelomeningocele?
Cerebrovascular accident
Hydrocephalus
Dehydration
Urinary tract infection
The Correct Answer is B
A. Cerebrovascular accident: A cerebrovascular accident (stroke) is not commonly associated with surgery for myelomeningocele. While neurological complications can occur, a stroke is not a primary concern in the immediate postoperative period for this condition.
B. Hydrocephalus: Hydrocephalus is a common condition in infants with myelomeningocele. It occurs due to the impaired flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as a result of the neural tube defect, leading to increased pressure within the ventricles of the brain.
C. Dehydration: While dehydration is a concern for many surgical patients, it is not specifically related to surgery for myelomeningocele. The primary postoperative concerns would involve the neurological status, including the presence of hydrocephalus.
D. Urinary tract infection: Although urinary tract infections can occur in infants, especially in those with neural tube defects, they are not the most immediate concern following surgery for myelomeningocele. The focus is more on monitoring for neurological complications.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Inserting a urinary catheter: Inserting a urinary catheter is an invasive procedure and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. It carries the risk of infection and discomfort for the infant. Non-invasive methods are preferred for monitoring urine output in most cases.
B. Measuring the amount of water added to formula: Measuring the water added to the formula is helpful for tracking fluid intake, but it does not assess urine output. Accurate urine output assessment requires monitoring what is excreted, not just ingested.
C. Comparing intake and output: While comparing intake and output is important, it may not give an accurate representation of urine output in infants due to the complexities of fluid shifts and retention, particularly when the infant is receiving diuretic therapy. A more precise method is needed to directly measure urine output.
D. Weighing diapers: Weighing diapers is the most accurate and practical method to assess urine output in infants. The weight of a wet diaper can be measured before and after use to calculate the amount of urine excreted. This method is non-invasive and provides a reliable measurement of urine output.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Your baby's defect is small and will likely close on its own by 1 year of age": Small VSDs often close spontaneously within the first year, and surgery is usually not needed unless the defect is large or causing symptoms.
B. "With a small defect like this, they wait until the child is 10 years old to do the surgery": Surgery for a small VSD is generally not needed unless complications arise. Most close naturally in infancy.
C. "It is common for health-care providers to wait until an infant develops respiratory distress before they do surgery": While respiratory distress is a symptom that might prompt surgical consideration for a VSD, healthcare providers do not wait for a child to develop severe symptoms before intervening. Surgery is considered based on symptoms and defect size.
D. "It is always helpful to get a second opinion about any serious condition like this": A second opinion is not necessary for most small VSDs, which often close on their own. The focus should be on providing accurate information and reassurance.
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