A nurse is collecting data from an infant who hit her head when she fell off of a dressing table. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as indicating increased intracranial pressure?
Brisk pupillary reaction to light
Irritability
Tachycardia
Increased sensory response to painful stimuli
The Correct Answer is B
A. Brisk pupillary reaction to light: A brisk pupillary reaction to light is a normal neurological finding and does not indicate increased ICP. Increased ICP might present with a sluggish or unequal pupil response.
B. Irritability: Irritability is a common early sign of increased ICP in infants. Changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability or lethargy, can indicate a neurological problem, including increased pressure within the skull.
C. Tachycardia: Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is not a typical indicator of increased ICP. Bradycardia (decreased heart rate) is more commonly associated with increased ICP due to the pressure on the brainstem affecting autonomic functions.
D. Increased sensory response to painful stimuli: Increased sensory response is not typically indicative of increased ICP. In fact, as ICP worsens, a decrease in sensory response or altered level of consciousness is more likely.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assist with administering a blood transfusion. Blood transfusions are often necessary in sickle cell crisis to manage severe anemia and improve oxygen delivery to tissues. This action helps alleviate the symptoms of the crisis and prevent complications.
B. Withhold opioids to avoid dependence. Opioids are essential for managing the severe pain associated with sickle cell crises. Concerns about dependence should not prevent adequate pain management in an acute setting.
C. Encourage exercise. During a sickle cell crisis, rest is crucial to reduce oxygen demand and prevent further sickling of red blood cells. Exercise is contraindicated during a crisis.
D. Initiate a 2 L/day fluid restriction. Adequate hydration is critical in managing sickle cell crisis, as it helps prevent further sickling of cells. Fluid restriction is inappropriate and could worsen the condition.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Temporal: The temporal artery is not commonly used for pulse checks in infants as it can be difficult to palpate and may not provide an accurate heart rate.
B. Carotid: The carotid pulse is not recommended in infants due to the risk of compressing the airway or carotid artery, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain.
C. Apical: The apical pulse is the most reliable method for assessing heart rate in infants. It involves auscultating the heart directly at the chest, which provides the most accurate heart rate measurement.
D. Dorsalis pedis: This site is not typically used for pulse checks in infants as it can be difficult to locate and palpate accurately.
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