The nurse has taught the parents of a school-aged child with a newly placed ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to monitor for early signs of shunt malfunction. The nurse determines the parents understand the instructions if they understand they should notify the provider if the child develops which early manifestation?
Lethargy
Seizure activity
Rapid weight gain
Disinterest in attending school
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Lethargy is an early sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to possible shunt malfunction and requires immediate medical attention.
B. Seizure activity can be a late sign of shunt malfunction and is also concerning but lethargy typically appears earlier.
C. Rapid weight gain is less directly related to shunt malfunction and more associated with conditions like hypothyroidism or edema.
D. Disinterest in school could suggest general malaise but is not a specific or early sign of shunt malfunction.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Dry mouth is expected postoperatively, especially if the child is not drinking adequate fluids, but it is not a sign of a complication.
B. Mild to moderate pain is expected after a tonsillectomy and should be managed with analgesics.
C. Dried flecks of blood in oral secretions can be normal immediately after surgery, but active bleeding would be concerning.
D. Frequent swallowing is a sign of possible postoperative bleeding, which is a serious complication that requires immediate evaluation and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Thyroid storm is related to hyperthyroidism and is not directly associated with vasopressin treatment.
B. Vitamin D toxicity is unrelated to vasopressin and is not a concern in this scenario.
C. Cushing syndrome is caused by excess cortisol and is not related to vasopressin therapy.
D. SIADH is characterized by excessive release of antidiuretic hormone, which can lead to water retention and hyponatremia. Since vasopressin is an antidiuretic hormone analog, it can cause similar effects if not carefully monitored.