A nurse is caring for a child who is to receive percussion, vibration, and postural drainage. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities:

Flaccid paralysis refers to a weakness or loss of muscle tone in the affected muscles, leading to decreased or absent movement. This finding is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta. Instead, it is more commonly seen in more severe forms of spina bifida, such as myelomeningocele, where there is significant involvement of the spinal cord and nerves.

B. Hip dislocation:

Hip dislocation can occur in individuals with myelomeningocele due to muscle weakness, abnormal muscle tone, and joint deformities associated with spinal cord defects. However, it is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta, which usually presents with less severe spinal cord involvement.

C. Hydrocephalus:

Hydrocephalus, characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, is a common complication of myelomeningocele due to disturbances in the flow and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid caused by the spinal defect. It is less commonly associated with spina bifida occulta, which typically involves a less severe spinal cord defect.

D. Dimple in sacral area:

This is the correct choice. A dimple, patch of hair, or birthmark in the lower back or sacral area is a common finding in spina bifida occulta. It occurs due to the incomplete closure of the spinal column during fetal development, leading to a small defect in the vertebrae. This is often a subtle manifestation of spina bifida occulta and may not cause significant symptoms or functional impairment.

A. Lethargy: Lethargy can be a concerning sign in a postoperative child, especially following a procedure involving the central nervous system like VP shunt insertion. It could indicate increased intracranial pressure or other neurological complications, which require immediate attention. Therefore, this is a priority finding.

B. Urine output 70 mL in 2 hr: While monitoring urine output is important for assessing hydration and renal function, a urine output of 70 mL in 2 hours may not be immediately concerning in a 4-year-old child. However, if this pattern continues or if there are signs of dehydration, it should be addressed. It's not as urgent as assessing for neurological changes.

C. Lying flat on the unaffected side: The positioning of the child, lying flat on the unaffected side, may or may not be concerning depending on the specific instructions provided postoperatively. While positioning can affect the function of the VP shunt, it may not necessarily indicate an immediate complication.

D. Respiratory rate 20/min: A respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute is within the normal range for a 4-year-old child. While changes in respiratory rate can indicate respiratory distress, this respiratory rate alone is not immediately concerning.