The nurse is reviewing the record of a child with increased intracranial pressure and notes that the child has exhibited signs of decerebrate posturing. On assessment of the child, the nurse expects to note which characteristic of this type of posturing?
Adduction of the arms at the shoulders
Abnormal flexion of the upper extremities and extension and adduction of lower extremities
Flaccid paralysis of all extremities
Rigid extension and pronation of the arms and legs
The Correct Answer is D
D. This is the correct characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing is characterized by rigid extension and pronation (turning inward) of the arms and legs. It indicates severe neurological dysfunction and increased intracranial pressure, often involving damage to the brainstem.
A. This characteristic is not associated with decerebrate posturing. Adduction refers to movement toward the midline of the body, which is not typically observed in decerebrate posturing.
B. This description is not characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing involves extension, not flexion, of the upper extremities, along with extension and pronation (not adduction) of the lower extremities.
C. Flaccid paralysis refers to the absence of muscle tone and movement, which is not characteristic of decerebrate posturing. Decerebrate posturing involves increased muscle tone and abnormal, rigid extension of the arms and legs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. The aim is to focus on the child's strengths and abilities while addressing limitations and challenges associated with the condition. This approach emphasizes maximizing the child's potential for development, independence, and participation in daily activities, education, and social interactions, while also providing support and resources to address any limitations or barriers they may encounter.
A. Another goal of treatment and care is to maximize the child's functional abilities by improving muscle control, coordination, and mobility through various therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. However, this is not the primary goal.
B. Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition caused by damage to the developing brain, often occurring before birth. While efforts to prevent cerebral palsy are important, once the condition has developed, the focus shifts to managing symptoms and optimizing the child's functioning rather than eliminating the cause.
C. Emotional well-being is an important aspect of overall health for children with cerebral palsy but it is not typically the primary goal of care. Emotional disturbances may occur in some children with cerebral palsy due to various factors such as coping with the challenges of the condition, social interactions, or other comorbidities, but the primary focus of the care plan is usually on addressing physical and functional impairments.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This position, often referred to as the "knee-to-chest" position, is recommended during a cyanotic spell in infants with tetralogy of Fallot because it can help increase venous return to the heart and improve oxygenation. It's important for caregivers to understand this positioning as part of the management for hypercyanotic spells in children with this condition.
A. Placing the baby upright in an infant seat may help improve blood flow and oxygenation, but it's not the recommended position for managing cyanosis in a baby with tetralogy of Fallot.
B. Placing the baby with the head lower than the rest of the body could potentially worsen cyanosis by increasing right-to-left shunting of blood and decreasing pulmonary blood flow.
C. Placing the baby in a supine position with the head elevated worsens pulmonary blood flow by increasing systemic vascular resistance. This position can help worsen cyanosis by promoting better oxygenation.
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