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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Hypertension (blood pressure of 136/92 mm Hg) in a child with acute pyelonephritis can indicate a severe condition that may lead to renal damage or worsening kidney function. Immediate intervention is necessary to manage high blood pressure and prevent complications.
B. A heart rate of 100 bpm is within normal limits for a 7-year-old and does not require immediate action.
C. Decreased urine output is concerning and needs monitoring, but hypertension is the more urgent issue.
D. Tea-colored urine suggests hematuria or concentrated urine, which is important but not as immediately life-threatening as high blood pressure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. There is no need to notify the provider if urine output is within the normal range.
B. Oral rehydration may not be necessary if the child is adequately hydrated.
C. A bladder scan is not required if the urine output is within the normal range.
D. Continue to monitor the client as the urine output is within the normal range. For a 3-year-old child (15 kg), normal urine output is 1-2 mL/kg/hr. This child’s output is approximately 1.3 mL/kg/hr, which is normal.