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 C
Explanation
A. Suggest to the client that he take a walk: Allowing pacing might escalate the agitation or delusions, especially in a stimulating environment. This does not address the immediate need to reduce stimuli.
B. Use firmness and direct the client to sit for a while: Direct commands may increase the client's agitation or trigger a confrontation if the client feels threatened or challenged while delusional.
C. Move the client to a quiet place on the unit: Reducing environmental stimuli by relocating the client to a low-stimulation setting can help de-escalate the situation and prevent further loss of control.
D. Encourage the client to use the punching bag: Promoting physical aggression even if directed at an object may reinforce violent behavior and is inappropriate during acute delusional episodes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Avoid straining at stool, bending, or lifting heavy objects: These activities can increase intraocular pressure and disrupt healing of the surgical site after cataract extraction. The client should be taught to avoid anything that could strain the eye and risk complications like hemorrhage or wound dehiscence.
B. Irrigate conjunctiva with ophthalmic saline prior to instilling antibiotic ointment:
Routine irrigation is not required and may introduce additional risk. Clients are instructed on proper hand hygiene and drop instillation rather than conjunctival irrigation.
C. Do not read without direct lighting for 6 weeks: While good lighting helps reduce eye strain, reading in lower light does not delay healing after cataract surgery. This instruction is unnecessary and could limit the client’s ability to resume normal activities.
D. Limit exposure to sunlight during the first 2 weeks when the cornea is healing: Although bright light can be uncomfortable post-surgery, wearing sunglasses typically offers sufficient protection. There is no requirement to restrict sunlight exposure completely.
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