A nurse is assessing the fontanels of a crying newborn and notes that the posterior fontanel pulsates and briefly bulges. What do these findings indicate?
Increased intracranial pressure
Dehydration
Overhydration
These are normal findings
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increased intracranial pressurE. Pulsation and bulging of the fontanel may be signs of
increased intracranial pressure in infants. However, it is important to differentiate between normal fontanel characteristics and abnormal signs of elevated intracranial pressure. In this case, the pulsation and bulging are likely normal responses to crying and changes in intracranial pressure during the newborn period.
B. Dehydration: Dehydration typically presents with sunken fontanels rather than pulsation and bulging. Dehydration is a serious condition that requires prompt assessment and intervention, but it is not indicated by the findings described in the scenario.
C. Overhydration: Overhydration is not typically associated with pulsation and bulging of the fontanel. Overhydration may lead to fluid overload and edema but does not directly affect fontanel characteristics.
D. These are normal findings: Pulsation and brief bulging of the fontanel in response to crying are considered normal findings in newborns. Fontanels allow for the flexibility of the skull bones during childbirth and provide space for brain growth during infancy. Pulsation and bulging may occur temporarily during crying or changes in intracranial pressure and are not necessarily
indicative of pathology.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A 7-year-old child who has diabetes insipidus and a urine specific gravity of 1.016: While diabetes insipidus requires monitoring and management, a urine specific gravity of 1.016 alone does not indicate acute distress or an emergency situation. The child may need adjustments in fluid intake or medication, but this can typically be addressed in a less urgent manner.
B. A 10-year-old child who has sickle cell anemia who reports severe chest pain: Severe chest pain in a child with sickle cell anemia could indicate a vaso-occlusive crisis affecting the chest, which is potentially life-threatening. Prompt assessment and intervention are necessary to
manage the pain and prevent complications, including acute chest syndrome or respiratory compromise.
C. A 1-year-old toddler who has roseola and a temperature of 39°C (102.2°F): Roseola is typically a benign viral illness characterized by fever and a rash. While a fever in a young child
requires monitoring and symptomatic management, it is not usually considered an emergency unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as dehydration or respiratory distress.
D. A 4-year-old child who has asthma and a PCO2 of 37 mm: While asthma exacerbations can be serious, a PCO2 level of 37 mm indicates normal carbon dioxide levels, which do not suggest acute respiratory distress or impending respiratory failure. However, if the child is experiencing severe respiratory distress, cyanosis, or altered mental status, immediate assessment and
intervention would be warranted.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A child whose parents answer questions for the child. This behavior may indicate that the child's parents are controlling or dominating, possibly preventing the child from expressing their own thoughts or feelings. It could be a sign of emotional or psychological abuse, where the child's autonomy and voice are suppressed.
B. A child who has frequent visitors: While frequent visitors may raise concerns about the child's social environment, it does not necessarily indicate abuse. Further assessment would be needed to determine the nature of these visits and their impact on the child's well-being.
C. A child who uses the call light frequently: Frequent use of the call light may indicate physical discomfort, illness, or anxiety, but it does not inherently suggest abuse. It could be related to the child's medical condition or emotional state.
D. A child who has a BMI indicating obesity: Obesity alone is not indicative of abuse. While it may raise concerns about the child's health and well-being, it does not directly point to abuse unless there are additional signs or symptoms suggestive of neglect or mistreatment.
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