A nurse is caring for a child who is postoperative following the insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The nurse should place the child in which of the following positions?
A 45 degree head elevation
On the nonoperative side
Prone
Supine
The Correct Answer is D
A. A 45-degree head elevation: This position can help facilitate venous drainage and reduce intracranial pressure. Elevating the head of the bed may aid in preventing the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, which is important after VP shunt insertion to maintain proper drainage. However, this position alone may not be sufficient.
B. On the nonoperative side: Placing the child on the nonoperative side can help reduce pressure on the side where the shunt was inserted, minimizing discomfort and the risk of disruption or displacement of the shunt. However, this position may not directly affect CSF drainage.
C. Prone: Placing the child prone (lying face down) is generally not recommended after VP shunt insertion. This position may increase pressure on the head and interfere with proper CSF drainage, potentially leading to complications.
D. Supine: Placing the child supine (lying on their back) is typically recommended after VP shunt insertion. This position helps promote proper drainage of CSF through the shunt system without placing undue pressure on the surgical site. It also allows for easy monitoring of the child's condition and surgical site.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Upright: This position allows for better expansion of the lungs and improved ventilation-perfusion matching, as gravity helps the diaphragm move downward and expand the lungs. It is often beneficial for patients with respiratory distress or failure.
B. Supine: While lying flat on the back (supine position) may be comfortable for some patients, it can restrict lung expansion, especially in individuals with compromised respiratory function. This position may not be ideal for maximal lung expansion in this scenario.
C. Prone: The prone position involves lying flat on the abdomen. In some cases, especially in adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), prone positioning has been shown to improve oxygenation by optimizing lung mechanics. However, it may not be practical or comfortable for all patients and is not typically used as a first-line intervention in school-age children with pneumonia.
D. Side-lying: While side-lying positions can sometimes improve lung expansion on the dependent side, it may not be as effective as the upright position in maximizing lung expansion, especially in cases of respiratory failure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I will use powders & lotion on his skin around the harness clasps."
This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Powders and lotions should generally be avoided around the harness clasps because they can interfere with the proper fit of the harness and cause irritation or discomfort to the baby's skin.
B. “I will remove the harness daily, prior to giving the bath.”
This statement is incorrect. The Pavlik harness is typically not removed for bathing, as it needs to be worn continuously to maintain proper positioning of the hips and promote optimal healing. Removing the harness daily for bathing can disrupt the treatment process and delay progress.
C. "I will adjust the harness straps every day."
This statement indicates a misunderstanding. The harness should not be adjusted daily without guidance from the healthcare provider. The straps of the Pavlik harness are initially adjusted by the healthcare provider to ensure proper fit, and they should remain in place without frequent adjustments to maintain stability and effectiveness.
D. "I will check my baby's skin under the straps frequently."
This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. It is essential for the mother to regularly check her baby's skin under the harness straps for any signs of irritation, redness, or pressure sores. Monitoring the skin closely allows for early detection of any issues that may arise from wearing the harness.
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