A nurse is explaining to parents how the central nervous system of a child differs from that of an adult. Which statement accurately describes these differences?
The brain of a term infant weighs less than half of the weight of the adult brain.
The infant has 150 mL of CSF compared with 50 mL in the adult.
Coordination and fine motor skills develop as myelinization of peripheral nerves progresses.
Papilledema is a common manifestation of ICP in the very young child.
The Correct Answer is A
The statement that accurately describes the difference between the central nervous system (CNS) of a child and an adult is option A. The brain of a term infant weighs less than half of the weight of the adult brain. The brain undergoes significant growth and development during childhood and continues to develop until early adulthood. At birth, the brain is only a fraction of its adult weight, and it continues to grow and mature over time.
infant has 150 mL of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compared with 50 mL in the adult in (option B), is incorrect. The volume of CSF in the CNS is not a significant difference between children and adults.
coordination and fine motor skills develop as myelination of peripheral nerves progresses in (option C), is an incorrect statement. Myelination is an ongoing process that occurs throughout childhood and contributes to the development of coordination and fine motor skills.
papilledema is a common manifestation of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in the very young child in (option D), is not correct. Papilledema refers to swelling of the optic disc and is not commonly seen in very young children. Signs of increased ICP in young children may present differently compared to adults and can include altered mental status, irritability, vomiting, and changes in vital signs.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It causes damage to the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients. The characteristic symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal distention, underweight or failure to thrive, thin arms and legs, and foul-smelling stools.
intussusception in (option A) is incorrect because it, refers to a condition where a portion of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent section, causing an obstruction. While intussusception can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and currant jelly-like stools, it is not typically associated with failure to thrive.
imperforate anus, in (option B) is incorrect because it is a congenital condition in which the opening of the anus is blocked or absent. It can cause difficulties with passing stools, but it is not typically associated with failure to thrive or the specific assessment findings described.
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in (option D) is incorrect because it, is a chronic disorder of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and bloating. While IBS can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, it is not typically associated with failure to thrive, underweight, or the specific assessment findings mentioned.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in a 10-year-old child is a headache. Headache is a common symptom associated with increased pressure within the cranial cavity. It can be a result of various conditions that cause elevated intracranial pressure, such as brain tumours, intracranial haemorrhage, hydrocephalus, or brain trauma. The headache may be described as persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in neurological status.
tachypnoea (rapid breathing), in (option A) is incorrect because it is not a specific sign of increased intracranial pressure. It can be seen in various conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular disorders, anxiety, or physical exertion.
bulging fontanel in (option B) is incorrect because it, is more commonly observed in infants and is not typically seen in older children. The fontanelles (soft spots) on an infant's skull normally close by the age of 18-24 months.
an increase in head circumference in (option D) is incorrect because it, may be a sign of increased intracranial pressure in infants. However, in a 10-year-old child, the fontanelles are typically closed, and head circumference growth is not a reliable indicator of increased intracranial pressure
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