A nurse is collecting data from a 5-month-old infant who has increased intracranial pressure (ICP) resulting from hydrocephalus. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Low-pitched cry
Positive Babinski reflex
Insomnia
Bulging fontanel
The Correct Answer is D
A. Low-pitched cry: A high-pitched cry, not a low-pitched one, is more typical of increased ICP in infants. A low-pitched cry is not a common sign of ICP and may be more related to other conditions.
B. Positive Babinski reflex: The Babinski reflex is normal in infants up to about 1 year of age and is not indicative of increased ICP. It is a normal finding and not specific to increased intracranial pressure.
C. Insomnia: Infants with increased ICP may exhibit irritability and changes in sleeping patterns, but insomnia (difficulty sleeping) is not a classic symptom. The focus should be on other more specific signs like changes in cry and physical appearance.
D. Bulging fontanel: A bulging fontanel is a key sign of increased ICP in infants. It occurs due to pressure within the skull causing the soft spot on the head to protrude. This is a classic symptom of increased intracranial pressure in infants.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Heart rate 110/min: A heart rate of 110 beats per minute is within the normal range for a 4-year-old child. The typical heart rate for this age is between 80 to 120 beats per minute.
B. Capillary refill greater than 3 seconds: Capillary refill time should be less than 2 seconds in a healthy child. A refill time greater than 3 seconds may indicate poor perfusion or dehydration, which is abnormal.
C. Weight gain of 0.9 kg (2 lb) in a year: A weight gain of 2 pounds in a year is below the expected range for a 4-year-old. Children in this age group typically gain around 4-5 pounds per year as they grow.
D. Respiratory rate 32/min: The normal respiratory rate for a 4-year-old child is typically between 20 to 30 breaths per minute. A rate of 32/min is slightly elevated and may indicate respiratory distress or other issues.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Bend forward from the waist with your head and arms downward." This position, known as the Adam’s forward bend test, is commonly used to screen for scoliosis. It allows the nurse to observe for any asymmetry in the rib cage or spine, which could indicate scoliosis.
B. "Lie prone on the examination table." Lying prone (face down) does not allow for the assessment of spinal curvature or rib asymmetry. This position is not useful for scoliosis screening.
C. "Touch your chin to your chest, and then look up at the ceiling." These movements assess neck flexibility and range of motion, which are not relevant for screening scoliosis.
D. "Turn to the side, and remain in a relaxed position." Turning to the side and relaxing does not provide the necessary view of the spine to assess for scoliosis. This position does not allow for a clear view of any asymmetry in the spine or ribs.
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