The nurse is caring for a one-week-old infant who has a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt that was placed 2 days after birth. Which finding(s) indicate a postoperative complication? Select all that apply.
Reference Range:
White blood cells (WBC) [9,000 to 10,000/mm3 (9 to 10 x 10^9 /L)]
Leakage of cerebral spinal fluid from the incisional site.
Poor feeding and vomiting.
Abdominal distention.
WBC of 10,000/mm3 (10 x 10^ 9/L).
Hyperactive bowel sounds.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
A. Leakage of cerebral spinal fluid from the incisional site: Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the incision site is a serious postoperative complication. It could indicate a shunt malfunction or infection, requiring immediate attention.
B. Poor feeding and vomiting: These symptoms may indicate increased intracranial pressure, which can result from a shunt malfunction or infection, both serious complications that need to be addressed immediately.
C. Abdominal distention: Abdominal distention in an infant with a VP shunt can indicate an issue with the peritoneal end of the shunt. This could be due to malabsorption of CSF in the peritoneal cavity, infection (peritonitis), or kinking/blockage of the catheter in the abdomen, leading to accumulation of fluid and distention.
D. WBC of 10,000/mm3 (10 x 10^9/L): A WBC count of 10,000/mm3 is within the normal range for a one-week-old infant. Therefore, this finding does not indicate infection or an inflammatory response and is not a concern in this case.
E. Hyperactive bowel sounds: Hyperactive bowel sounds are typically not associated with a VP shunt complication. This finding is generally indicative of gastrointestinal motility, which is not related to a shunt malfunction or infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Names 3 home safety hazards to be resolved immediately: This addresses fall prevention, which is the most immediate and critical concern in osteoporosis due to the high risk of fractures from minimal trauma.
B. States 4 risk factors for the development of osteoporosis: While understanding risk factors is important for prevention, it is less urgent than addressing environmental hazards that could lead to injury.
C. Identifies 2 treatments for constipation due to immobility: Managing constipation is relevant for immobility but not a top priority compared to fall and fracture risk.
D. Lists 5 calcium-rich foods to be added to the daily diet: Dietary calcium supports long-term bone health but does not immediately reduce the risk of injury like eliminating hazards does.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Electromyography: Electromyography assesses electrical activity in muscles and is used to diagnose neuromuscular disorders. It is not relevant to evaluating bleeding tendencies or pinpoint skin spots, which suggest a hematologic issue like thrombocytopenia.
B. Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy might help diagnose dermatologic conditions, but it is invasive and not the initial step when systemic drug side effects like petechiae are suspected. The presence of red spots suggests a possible blood disorder requiring laboratory confirmation first.
C. Complete blood count: A CBC is essential to evaluate for thrombocytopenia, a known adverse effect of zidovudine. Pinpoint red spots, or petechiae, are often linked to low platelet counts, which require prompt detection and management to prevent serious complications.
D. Allergy test: Allergy testing identifies hypersensitivity reactions, typically associated with rashes or itching. Petechiae are not commonly caused by allergic reactions but are more indicative of blood abnormalities, making this test less immediately relevant.
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