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 forward bending test, also known as the Adam's forward bend test, is commonly used to screen for idiopathic scoliosis. During this test, the child is instructed to bend forward from the waist with their arms hanging downward and palms touching or overlapping. This position allows the nurse to observe the child's back for asymmetry, rib humps, or other signs of spinal curvature characteristic of scoliosis.

A This position may be used for certain examinations, such as assessing the spine's curvature but it is not typically the position used for screening for idiopathic scoliosis.
B This instruction involves cervical spine movement and is not relevant to screening for idiopathic scoliosis. It may be part of a different examination, such as assessing cervical spine range of motion or neurological function, but it does not aid in detecting scoliosis.
C Turning to the side and remaining relaxed may not provide adequate visualization of the spine's curvature, which is essential for scoliosis screening. Additionally, this position does not allow for proper assessment of the spine's alignment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Salicylates, such as aspirin, should be avoided in children and adolescents with viral symptoms due to the association with Reye's syndrome. Instead, acetaminophen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without salicylates should be used for fever and pain relief.
A. Reye's syndrome typically presents with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and lethargy. However, there isn't a specific test for Reye's syndrome itself. Diagnosis is often based on clinical symptoms, history of aspirin use, and laboratory findings.
B. Reye's syndrome is associated with the use of aspirin (salicylates) in children and adolescents with viral infections, particularly influenza and chickenpox. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended instead of aspirin for fever and pain relief in children with viral illnesses.
D. There isn't a specific vaccine for Reye's syndrome. Reye's syndrome is not caused by an infectious agent that can be prevented through vaccination.
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