When a 2-week-old infant is seen for irritability, poor appetite, and rapid head growth with observable distended scalp veins, the nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of which disorder?
Cerebral palsy
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
Hydrocephalus
Reye's syndrome
The Correct Answer is C
Hydrocephalus refers to a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. In infants, hydrocephalus can cause the head to enlarge rapidly as a result of the increased pressure exerted by the accumulating fluid. This is known as "rapid head growth." The increased intracranial pressure canlead to irritability and poor appetite in infants.
The distended scalp veins are another common sign of hydrocephalus. As the fluid accumulates, it puts pressure on theblood vessels in the brain, causing the veins in the scalp to become more visible and distended.
Cerebral palsy in (option A) is incorrect because is a neurological disorder that affects body movement and musclecoordination, but it does not typically present with rapid head growth or distended scalp veins.
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) in (option B) is incorrect because it is a condition characterized by excessive secretion of antidiuretic hormone, leading to fluid imbalance, but it does not usually cause rapid head growth or distended scalp veins. Reye's syndrome (D) is a rare condition that primarily affects the liver and brain, and it does not typically present with rapid head growth or distended scalp veins.
Therefore, based on the signs described, hydrocephalus (C) is the most likely disorder in this case. It is important to seekmedical attention promptly for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management of hydrocephalus in infants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Precocious puberty is the early onset of puberty before the age of 8 in girls and before the age of 9 in boys. It is important for parents of a child with precocious puberty to understand theimpact it may have on their child's social and emotional development. In this case, explaining the importance of the child having relationships with same-age peers is crucial.
Children experiencing precocious puberty may appear physically more mature than their peers, which can lead to social and emotional challenges. Encouraging the child to maintain relationships with same-age peers helps foster a sense of normalcy and belonging. It can also support the child's social and emotional development by providing opportunities for age- appropriate interactions, friendships, and experiences.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Thebehaviourdescribed,wherethechildappearstobestaringinto space,is characteristicof
B.Absenceseizures.
Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are a type of generalized seizure thatprimarily affects children. These seizures are brief and usually last for a few seconds. Duringan absence seizure, the child may appear to be staring blankly into space, unaware of theirsurroundings.Theymaynot respond to stimuli orengagein anypurposefulactivity.After theseizure ends, the child typically resumes their previous activity without any memory of theseizure.
Atonic seizures in (option A) is incorrect because it involves a sudden loss of muscle tone,leadingtoalimp or "drop"in theperson.
Simple partial seizures in (option C) are focal seizures that affect a specific region of thebrain,causinglocalizedsymptoms suchas twitchingor tinglinginaparticularbodypart.
Tonic-clonic seizures in (option D) also known as grand mal seizures, is incorrect because itinvolves a combination of muscle rigidity (tonic phase) and jerking movements (clonicphase).
Therefore, based on the description provided, the behaviour of staring into space ischaracteristic of B. Absence seizures. It is important for the child to be evaluated by ahealthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of theirseizures.
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