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 B
Explanation
A. Capillary refill less than 2 seconds: A capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds indicates good peripheral circulation, which is normal and not a cause for concern in this context. It is not the priority.
B. Tingling in the right foot Rationale: Tingling (paraesthesia) can be a sign of nerve damage or compromised circulation, which may indicate complications such as compartment syndrome. This is a priority finding because it can lead to severe consequences if not addressed promptly.
C. 2+ right pedal pulse Rationale: A 2+ pedal pulse indicates a normal pulse strength, which suggests that there is adequate blood flow to the extremity. It is not a priority compared to the potential for neurological or circulatory compromise.
D. Respiratory rate 24/min Rationale: A respiratory rate of 24/min is within the normal range for a school-age child (18-30 breaths per minute). While it is important to monitor vital signs, it is not a priority concern related to the fracture.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Attempt to obtain a throat culture: This is contraindicated because manipulating the throat could exacerbate airway obstruction, leading to a potential respiratory emergency.
B. Use a tongue depressor to observe the back of the throat: This can provoke a spasm or cause complete airway obstruction in a child with epiglottitis and should be avoided.
C. Apply humidified oxygen via a mask: This helps to keep the airways moist and can provide some relief and improve oxygenation while minimizing the risk of airway manipulation.
D. Initiate airborne precautions: Epiglottitis primarily requires droplet precautions, not airborne. Airborne precautions are used for diseases like tuberculosis, which are spread through smaller droplets that remain suspended in the air.
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