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.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Allow the child to see and touch IV tubing and supplies.
Allowing the child to see and touch the IV tubing and supplies can help familiarize them with the equipment and reduce anxiety. However, there may be a more appropriate action to take first.
B. Explain to the child's parents what role they will have during the procedure.
While it's important to involve the child's parents and inform them of their role during the procedure, the priority should be to prepare the child for the insertion itself.
C. Describe the procedure using visual aids.
Using visual aids can be helpful in explaining the procedure to the child and providing a clear understanding of what will happen. However, there may be a more appropriate action to take first.
D. Ask the child what he knows about the procedure.
This is the correct answer. Asking the child what they already know about the procedure allows the nurse to assess their understanding and address any misconceptions or concerns they may have. It also helps the nurse tailor their explanation to the child's level of understanding and provide information that is relevant and meaningful to them.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Has your son had a sore throat recently?"
This question is relevant because acute rheumatic fever often occurs as a complication of untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal throat infection (strep throat). A recent history of sore throat could indicate a preceding streptococcal infection, which is an important predisposing factor for the development of acute rheumatic fever.
B. "Was your son born with this cardiac defect?"
This question is less relevant in the context of acute rheumatic fever. Acute rheumatic fever is not a congenital heart defect; it is an inflammatory condition that affects the heart valves following streptococcal infection. While it's important to assess the child's cardiac health, asking about congenital heart defects may not directly relate to the current condition.
C. "Are you aware that your son will have to be in isolation?"
This question is not applicable to acute rheumatic fever. Acute rheumatic fever is not a contagious condition that requires isolation. It is an autoimmune response triggered by streptococcal infection and does not pose a risk of transmission to others.
D. "Has your child had any injuries recently?"
Inquiring about recent injuries is not directly related to acute rheumatic fever. Acute rheumatic fever is an inflammatory condition primarily triggered by streptococcal infection and is not caused by physical injuries.
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