A nurse is teaching the parents of a toddler about strategies to manage temper tantrums. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Depressed scalp veins: This is an incorrect choice. In hydrocephalus, there is increased pressure within the skull due to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This increased pressure typically leads to distended scalp veins rather than depressed ones.

B. Sunken anterior fontanels: This is an incorrect choice. The fontanel, also known as the soft spot on an infant's head, may actually bulge rather than appear sunken in cases of hydrocephalus due to increased intracranial pressure.

C.Bulging eyes:In individuals with hydrocephalus, especially infants and young children, bulging eyes can sometimes occur.The increased pressure inside the skull can affect various structures within the brain, including the optic nerve and the muscles that control eye movement. This can lead to a condition called papilledema, where the optic nerve becomes swollen due to the pressure. Papilledema can cause changes in vision and, in some cases, contribute to the appearance of bulging eyes.

D.Separated cranial sutures:The separation of cranial sutures in hydrocephalus occurs due to the increased pressure from the excess CSF. This pressure can cause the bones of the skull to move apart, leading to visible gaps or widening of the sutures. Clinically, this can be observed through imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI.

A. "What is your pain level right now?": This response doesn't directly address the child's question about mortality and may deflect the conversation away from the child's concerns. While assessing pain is important, it should not be the immediate response to a question about mortality.

B. "Your doctor will be able to answer your questions tomorrow.": This response delays addressing the child's concerns and may leave the child feeling anxious or unsupported in the meantime. It's important for the nurse to provide immediate support and reassurance when a child expresses fears or worries.

C. "It sounds like you are worried. Tell me what you have been told.": This response acknowledges the child's emotions and invites them to share their thoughts and concerns. It opens up a dialogue between the nurse and the child, allowing the nurse to provide appropriate support and information based on the child's understanding and perspective.

D. "It's natural to worry about death, but you should focus your energy on getting better.": While this response acknowledges the child's worry, it may come across as dismissive or minimizing of the child's concerns about mortality. It's important to validate the child's emotions and offer support rather than redirecting their focus away from their worries.