The nurse is caring for a one-week-old infant who has a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt that was placed 2 days after birth. Which finding(s) indicate a postoperative complication? Select all that apply.
Reference Range:
White blood cells (WBC) [9,000 to 10,000/mm3 (9 to 10 x 10^9 /L)]
Leakage of cerebral spinal fluid from the incisional site.
Poor feeding and vomiting.
Abdominal distention.
WBC of 10,000/mm3 (10 x 10^ 9/L).
Hyperactive bowel sounds.
Correct Answer : A,B,C
A. Leakage of cerebral spinal fluid from the incisional site: Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the incision site is a serious postoperative complication. It could indicate a shunt malfunction or infection, requiring immediate attention.
B. Poor feeding and vomiting: These symptoms may indicate increased intracranial pressure, which can result from a shunt malfunction or infection, both serious complications that need to be addressed immediately.
C. Abdominal distention: Abdominal distention in an infant with a VP shunt can indicate an issue with the peritoneal end of the shunt. This could be due to malabsorption of CSF in the peritoneal cavity, infection (peritonitis), or kinking/blockage of the catheter in the abdomen, leading to accumulation of fluid and distention.
D. WBC of 10,000/mm3 (10 x 10^9/L): A WBC count of 10,000/mm3 is within the normal range for a one-week-old infant. Therefore, this finding does not indicate infection or an inflammatory response and is not a concern in this case.
E. Hyperactive bowel sounds: Hyperactive bowel sounds are typically not associated with a VP shunt complication. This finding is generally indicative of gastrointestinal motility, which is not related to a shunt malfunction or infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. G (Gravida): This refers to the total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy. Since the client is currently pregnant, and she has had three previous pregnancies and one of which was a spontaneous abortion, the total is 5 (1 current pregnancy + 3 previous births + 1 spontaneous abortion). T (Term births): The client has had two full-term births (one at 38 weeks and one at 41 weeks), so T = 2. P (Preterm births): The client has had one preterm birth (at 35 weeks), so P = 1. A (Abortions/miscarriages): The client had one spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks, so A = 1. L (Living children): The client has four living children, so L = 4.
B. G (Gravida): This refers to the total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy. Since the client is currently pregnant, and she has had three previous pregnancies and one of which was a spontaneous abortion, the total is 5 (1 current pregnancy + 3 previous births + 1 spontaneous abortion). T (Term births): The client has had two full-term births (one at 38 weeks and one at 41 weeks), so T = 2. P (Preterm births): The client has had one preterm birth (at 35 weeks), so P = 1. A (Abortions/miscarriages): The client had one spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks, so A = 1. L (Living children): The client has four living children, so L = 4.
C. G (Gravida): This refers to the total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy. Since the client is currently pregnant, and she has had three previous pregnancies and one of which was a spontaneous abortion, the total is 5 (1 current pregnancy + 3 previous births + 1 spontaneous abortion). T (Term births): The client has had two full-term births (one at 38 weeks and one at 41 weeks), so T = 2. P (Preterm births): The client has had one preterm birth (at 35 weeks), so P = 1. A (Abortions/miscarriages): The client had one spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks, so A = 1. L (Living children): The client has four living children, so L = 4.
D. G (Gravida): This refers to the total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy. Since the client is currently pregnant, and she has had three previous pregnancies and one of which was a spontaneous abortion, the total is 5 (1 current pregnancy + 3 previous births + 1 spontaneous abortion). T (Term births): The client has had two full-term births (one at 38 weeks and one at 41 weeks), so T = 2. P (Preterm births): The client has had one preterm birth (at 35 weeks), so P = 1. A (Abortions/miscarriages): The client had one spontaneous abortion at 10 weeks, so A = 1. L (Living children): The client has four living children, so L = 4.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This tablet has no score line and could have an extended-release or special coating that should not be altered. Cutting it may affect absorption and safety.
B. The triangular shape and lack of score line suggest it is not intended to be split, risking improper dosing or altered release.
C. The tablet in option C has a scored line (a groove down the middle), which indicates that it can be safely split. Scored tablets are manufactured to ensure even distribution of the active ingredient, making it safe for dose division.
D. This is a capsule, which should never be cut or opened unless specifically directed, as it may contain extended-release beads or irritants.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
