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
Compartment syndrome is a condition that can occur following an injury, such as a fracture, where there is increased pressure within a closed space (compartment) in the body. In the case of a forearm fracture, swelling and increased pressure within the compartment can lead to compression of the nerves and blood vessels, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and decreased function of the affected muscles.
The inability to extend the fingers suggests impairment of the extensor muscles, which are innervated by the radial nerve. If the radial nerve is compressed or injured due to compartment syndrome, it can result in a loss of function in the muscles it innervates, leading to the inability to extend the fingers.
damage to the epiphyseal plate in (option A) is incorrect because it, is not related to the inability to extend the fingers. The epiphyseal plate is the growth plate in long bones, and damage to it would typically affect bone growth rather than finger extension.
, stating that it is normal following this type of injury in (option B), is incorrect. Inability to extend the fingers is not a normal or expected finding after a forearm fracture. It suggests a potential complication or underlying issue.
fat embolism in (option D) is incorrect because it, is unlikely to cause an inability to extend the fingers. Fat embolism occurs when fat globules from a broken bone enter the bloodstream and can lead to respiratory and neurological symptoms, but it would not specifically cause an isolated loss of finger extension.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Upper extremity fractures in children commonly occur as a result of falls. Children are more prone to falls due to their developing motor skills, balance, and coordination. They may fall from playground equipment, bicycles, or simply while running or playing.
While sports injuries (Option A) can also lead to upper extremity fractures, falls are generally the most common cause in children.
Physical abuse (Option B) is an unfortunate possibility in some cases, but it is important to approach the assessment without assuming abuse as the cause without appropriate evidence or disclosure.
Upper extremity fractures resulting from automobile crashes (Option D) are less common in children compared to falls or sports injuries, although they can occur in severe accidents.
It is always important for the nurse to assess the child's history, obtain a detailed account of the injury, and consider any additional signs or indications that may suggest non-accidental trauma if appropriate.
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