Quiz 3-Comfort and Neuro

The nurse is using the FLACC scale to evaluate pain in a preverbal child. The nurse makes the following assessment: Face: occasional grimace; Leg: relaxed; Activity: squirming, tense; Cry: no cry; Consolability: content, relaxed. The nurse records the FLACC assessment as ________. (Record your answer as a whole number.)

2

The nurse is preparing to admit a 5-year-old with an epidural hemorrhage. What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Headache b. Vomiting c. Irritability d. Cephalhematoma e. Pallor with anemia

A, B, C The classic clinical picture of an epidural hemorrhage is a lucid interval (momentary unconsciousness) followed by a normal period for several hours, and then lethargy or coma due to blood accumulation in the epidural space and compression of the brain. The child may be seen with varying degrees of impaired consciousness depending on the severity of the traumatic injury. Common symptoms in a child with no neurologic deficit are irritability, headache, and vomiting when they have an epidural hemorrhage. In infants younger than 1 year of age, the most common symptoms are irritability, pallor with anemia, and cephalhematoma

A child has been admitted with status epilepticus. An emergency medication has been ordered. What medication should the nurse expect to be prescribed? a. Lorazepam (Ativan) b. Phenytoin (Dilantin) c. Topiramate (Topamax) d. Ethosuximide (Zarontin)

A For in-hospital management of status epilepticus, intravenous diazepam or lorazepam (Ativan) is the first-line drug of choice. Lorazepam is the preferred agent because of its rapid onset (2-5 minutes) and long half-life (12-24 hours) with few side effects

The nurse is preparing to admit a neonate with bacterial meningitis. What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (Select all that apply.) a. Jaundice b. Cyanosis c. Poor tone d. Nuchal rigidity e. Poor sucking ability

A, B, C, E Clinical manifestations of bacterial meningitis in a neonate include jaundice, cyanosis, poor tone, and poor sucking ability. The neck is usually supple in neonates with meningitis, and there is no nuchal rigidity.

The nurse is caring for a 10-year-old child who has an acute head injury, has a pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale score of 9, and is unconscious. What intervention should the nurse include in the child's care plan? a. Elevate the head of the bed 15 to 30 degrees with the head maintained in midline. b. Maintain an active, stimulating environment. c. Perform chest percussion and suctioning every 1 to 2 hours. d. Perform active range of motion and nontherapeutic touch every 8 hours.

A Nursing activities for children with head trauma and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) include elevating the head of the bed 15 to 30 degrees and maintaining the head in a midline position. The nurse should try to maintain a quiet, nonstimulating environment for a child with increased ICP. Chest percussion and suctioning should be performed judiciously because they can elevate ICP. Range of motion should be passive and nontherapeutic touch should be avoided because both of these activities can increase ICP.

The nurse is planning care for a school-age child with bacterial meningitis. What intervention should be included? a. Keep environmental stimuli to a minimum. b. Have the child move her head from side to side at least every 2 hours. c. Avoid giving pain medications that could dull sensorium. d. Measure head circumference to assess developing complications.

A The room is kept as quiet as possible and environmental stimuli are kept to a minimum. Most children with meningitis are sensitive to noise, bright lights, and other external stimuli. The nuchal rigidity associated with meningitis would make moving the head from side to side a painful intervention. If pain is present, the child should be treated appropriately. Failure to treat can cause increased intracranial pressure. In this age group, the head circumference does not change. Signs of increased intracranial pressure would need to be assessed

A child develops syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) as a complication to meningitis. What action should be verified before implementing? a. Forcing fluids b. Daily weights with strict input and output (I and O) c. Strict monitoring of urine volume and specific gravity d. Close observation for signs of increasing cerebral edema

A The treatment of SIADH consists of fluid restriction until serum electrolytes and osmolality return to normal levels. SIADH often occurs in children who have meningitis. Monitoring weights, keeping I and O and specific gravity of urine, and observing for signs of increasing cerebral edema are all part of the nursing care for a child with SIADH.

What is important to incorporate in the plan of care for a child who is experiencing a seizure? a. Describe and record the seizure activity observed. b. Suction the child during a seizure to prevent aspiration. c. Place a tongue blade between the teeth if they become clenched. d. Restrain the child when seizures occur to prevent bodily harm.

A When a child is having a seizure, the priority nursing care is observation of the child and seizure. The nurse then describes and records the seizure activity. The child is not suctioned during the seizure. If possible, the child should be placed on the side, facilitating drainage to prevent aspiration.

A 10-year-old child, without a history of previous seizures, experiences a tonic-clonic seizure at school that lasts more than 5 minutes. Breathing is not impaired. Some postictal confusion occurs. What is the most appropriate initial action by the school nurse? a. Stay with child and have someone else call emergency medical services (EMS). b. Notify the parent and regular practitioner. c. Notify the parent that the child should go home. d. Stay with the child, offering calm reassurance.

A Because this is the child's first seizure and it lasted more than 5 minutes, EMS should be called to transport the child, and evaluation should be performed as soon as possible. The nurse should stay with the recovering child while someone else notifies EMS

The nurse is preparing to admit a 6-month-old infant with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe in this infant? (Select all that apply.) a. High-pitched cry b. Poor feeding c. Setting-sun sign d. Sunken fontanel e. Distended scalp veins f. Decreased head circumference

A, B, C, E Clinical manifestations of increased ICP in an infant include a high-pitched cry, poor feeding, setting-sun sign, and distended scalp veins. The infant would have a tense, bulging fontanel and an increased head circumference.

The nurse is caring for a child with meningitis. What acute complications of meningitis should the nurse continuously assess the child for? (Select all that apply.) a. Seizures b. Cerebral palsy c. Cerebral edema d. Hydrocephalus e. Cognitive impairments

A, C, D Acute complications of meningitis include syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), subdural effusions, seizures, cerebral edema and herniation, and hydrocephalus. Long-term complications include cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments, learning disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and seizures.

The nurse is preparing to admit a 10-year-old child with absence seizures. What clinical features of absence seizures should the nurse recognize? (Select all that apply.) a. There is no aura. b. There is a postictal state. c. They usually last longer than 30 seconds. d. There is a brief loss of consciousness. e. There is an occasional clonic movement.

A, D, E Clinical features of absence seizures include no auras, a brief loss of consciousness, and an occasional clonic movement. There is no postictal state, and the seizures rarely last longer than 30 seconds.

The nurse is caring for a child with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). What interventions should the nurse plan for this child? (Select all that apply.) a. Avoid jarring the bed. b. Keep the room brightly lit. c. Keep the bed in a flat position. d. Administer prescribed stool softeners. e. Administer a prescribed antiemetic for nausea.

A, D, E Other measures to relieve discomfort for a child with ICP include providing a quiet, dimly lit environment; limiting visitors; preventing any sudden, jarring movement, such as banging into the bed; and preventing an increase in ICP. The latter is most effectively achieved by proper positioning and prevention of straining, such as during coughing, vomiting, or defecating. An antiemetic should be administered to prevent vomiting, and stool softeners should be prescribed to prevent straining with bowel movements. The head of the bed should be elevated 15 to 30 degrees.

A 6-year-old child is having a generalized seizure in the classroom at school. Place in order the interventions the school nurse should implement starting with the highest-priority intervention sequencing to the lowest-priority intervention. Provide answer using lowercase letters separated by commas (e.g., a, b, c, d, e). a. Take vital signs. b. Ease child to the floor. c. Allow child to rest. d. Turn child to the side. e. Integrate child back into the school environment.

ANS: b, d, a, c, e The nurse should ease the child to the floor immediately during a generalized seizure. During (and sometimes after) the generalized seizure, the swallowing reflex is lost, salivation increases, and the tongue is hypotonic. Therefore, the child is at risk for aspiration and airway occlusion. Placing the child on the side facilitates drainage and helps maintain a patent airway. Vital signs should be taken next and the child should be allowed to rest. When feasible, the child is integrated into the environment as soon as possible.

The nurse is monitoring an infant for signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Which are late signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in an infant? (Select all that apply.) a. Tachycardia b. Alteration in pupil size and reactivity c. Increased motor response d. Extension or flexion posturing e. Cheyne-Stokes respirations

ANS: B, D, E Late signs of ICP in an infant or child include bradycardia, alteration in pupil size and reactivity, decreased motor response, extension or flexion posturing, and Cheyne-Stokes respirations.

Which assessment indicates to a nurse that a 2-year-old child is in need of pain medication? a. The child is lying rigidly in bed and not moving. b. The childs current vital signs are consistent with vital signs over the past 4 hours. c. The child becomes quiet when held and cuddled. d. The child has just returned from the recovery room.

ANS: A Behaviors such as crying, distressed facial expressions, certain motor responses such as lying rigidly in bed and not moving, and interrupted sleep patterns are indicative of pain in children. Current vital signs that are consistent with earlier vital signs do not indicate that the child is feeling pain. Response to comforting behaviors does not suggest that the child is feeling pain. A child who is returning from the recovery room may or may not be in pain. Most times the childs pain is under adequate control at this time. The child may be fearful or having anxiety because of the strange surroundings and having just completed surgery.

Which drug should the nurse expect to administer to a preschool child who has increased intracranial pressure (ICP) resulting from cerebral edema? a. Mannitol (Osmitrol) b. Epinephrine hydrochloride (Adrenalin) c. Atropine sulfate (Atropine) d. Sodium bicarbonate (Sodium bicarbonate)

ANS: A For increased ICP, mannitol, an osmotic diuretic, administered intravenously, is the drug used most frequently for rapid reduction. Epinephrine hydrochloride, atropine sulfate, and sodium bicarbonate are not used to decrease ICP.

Which is the priority nursing intervention for an unconscious child after a fall? a. Establish adequate airway. b. Perform neurologic assessment. c. Monitor intracranial pressure. d. Determine whether a neck injury is present.

ANS: A Respiratory effectiveness is the primary concern in the care of the unconscious child. Establishment of an adequate airway is always the first priority. A neurologic assessment and determination of whether a neck injury is present will be performed after breathing and circulation are stabilized. Intracranial, not intercranial, pressure is monitored if indicated after airway, breathing, and circulation are maintained.

The nurse is evaluating the laboratory results on cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) from a 3-year-old child with bacterial meningitis. Which findings confirm bacterial meningitis? (Select all that apply.) a. Elevated white blood cell (WBC) count b. Decreased glucose c. Normal protein d. Elevated red blood cell (RBC) count

ANS: A, B The cerebrospinal fluid analysis in bacterial meningitis shows elevated WBC count, decreased glucose, and increased protein content. There should not be RBCs evident in the CSF fluid.

When pain is assessed in an infant, it is inappropriate for the nurse to assess for: a. Facial expressions of pain. c. Crying. b. Localization of pain. d. Thrashing of extremities.

ANS: B Infants are unable to localize pain. Frowning, grimacing, and facial flinching in an infant may indicate pain. Infants often exhibit high-pitched, tense, harsh crying to express pain. Infants may exhibit thrashing of extremities in response to a painful stimulus.

Which myth may interfere with the treatment of pain in infants and children? a. Infants may have sleep difficulties after a painful event. b. Children and infants are more susceptible to respiratory depression from narcotics. c. Pain in children is multidimensional and subjective. d. A childs cognitive level does not influence the pain experience.

ANS: B No data are available to support the belief that infants and children are at higher risk of respiratory depression when they are given narcotic analgesics. This is a myth. It is true that infants may have sleep difficulties after a painful event. Pain in children is multidimensional and subjective. The childs cognitive level, along with emotional factors and past experiences, does influence the perception of pain.

When assessing pain in any child, the nurse should consider that: a. Any pain assessment tool can be used to assess pain in children. b. Children as young as 1 year old use words to express pain. c. The childs behavioral, physiologic, and verbal responses are valuable when assessing pain. d. Pain assessment tools are minimally effective for communicating about pain.

ANS: C Childrens behavioral, physiologic, and verbal responses are indicative when assessing pain. The use of pain measurement tools greatly assists in communicating about pain. The childs age is important in determining the appropriate pain assessment tool to use. Developmentally appropriate assessment tools need to be used to effectively identify and determine the level of pain felt by a child. Toddlers may use words such as ouch or hurt to identify pain, but infants and young children may not have the language or cognitive abilities to express pain. Pain assessment tools when used appropriately are successful and efficient in identifying and quantifying pain with children. Behavioral and physiologic signs and symptoms in combination with pain assessment tools are most effective in diagnosing pain levels in children.

Which type of seizure involves both hemispheres of the brain? a. Focal b. Partial c. Generalized d. Acquired

ANS: C Clinical observations of generalized seizures indicate that the initial involvement is from both hemispheres. Focal seizures may arise from any area of the cerebral cortex, but the frontal, temporal, and parietal lobes are most commonly affected. Partial seizures are caused by abnormal electric discharges from epileptogenic foci limited to a circumscribed region of the cerebral cortex. A seizure disorder that is acquired is a result of a brain injury from a variety of factors; it does not specify the type of seizure.

The nurse is monitoring a 7-year-old child post-surgical resection of an infratentorial brain tumor. Which vital sign findings indicate Cushing's triad? a. Increased temperature, tachycardia, tachypnea b. Decreased temperature, bradycardia, bradypnea c. Bradycardia, hypertension, irregular respirations d. Bradycardia, hypotension, tachypnea

ANS: C Cushing's triad is a hallmark sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The triad includes bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respirations. Increased or decreased temperature is not a sign of Cushing's triad.

Which is the initial clinical manifestation of generalized seizures? a. Being confused b. Feeling frightened c. Losing consciousness d. Seeing flashing lights

ANS: C Loss of consciousness is a frequent occurrence in generalized seizures and is the initial clinical manifestation. Being confused, feeling frightened, and seeing flashing lights are clinical manifestations of a complex partial seizure.

3. A nurse is gathering a history on a school-age child admitted for a migraine headache. The child states, "I have been getting a migraine every 2 or 3 months for the last year." The nurse documents this as which type of pain? a. Acute b. Chronic c. Recurrent d. Subacute

ANS: C Pain that is episodic and reoccurs is defined as recurrent pain. The time frame within which episodes of pain recur is at least 3 months. Recurrent pain in children includes migraine headache, episodic sickle cell pain, recurrent abdominal pain (RAP), and recurrent limb pain. Acute pain is pain that lasts for less than 3 months. Chronic pain is pain that lasts, on a daily basis, for more than 3 months. Subacute is not a term for documenting type of pain. DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand REF: p. 118 TOP: Integrated Process: Communication and Documentation MSC: Area of Client Needs: Physiologic Integrity

A child is brought to the emergency department after experiencing a seizure at school. There is no previous history of seizures. The father tells the nurse that he cannot believe the child has epilepsy. The nurse's best response is: a. "Epilepsy is easily treated." b. "Very few children have actual epilepsy." c. "The seizure may or may not mean that your child has epilepsy." d. "Your child has had only one convulsion; it probably won't happen again."

ANS: C Seizures are the indispensable characteristic of epilepsy; however, not every seizure is epileptic. Epilepsy is a chronic seizure disorder with recurrent and unprovoked seizures. The treatment of epilepsy involves a thorough assessment to determine the type of seizure the child is having and the cause, followed by individualized therapy to allow the child to have as normal a life as possible. The nurse should not make generalized comments regarding the incidence of epilepsy until further assessment is made.

A 5-year-old girl sustained a concussion when she fell out of a tree. In preparation for discharge, the nurse is discussing home care with her mother. Which statement made by the mother indicates a correct understanding of the teaching? a. "I should expect my child to have a few episodes of vomiting." b. "If I notice sleep disturbances, I should contact the physician immediately." c. "I should expect my child to have some behavioral changes after the accident." d. "If I notice diplopia, I will have my child rest for 1 hour."

ANS: C The parents are advised of probable posttraumatic symptoms that may be expected. These include behavioral changes and sleep disturbances. If the child has these clinical signs, they should be immediately reported for evaluation. Sleep disturbances are to be expected.

The nurse is caring for a neonate with suspected meningitis. Which clinical manifestations should the nurse prepare to assess if meningitis is confirmed? (Select all that apply.) a. Headache b. Photophobia c. Bulging anterior fontanel d. Weak cry e. Poor muscle tone

ANS: C, D, E Assessment findings in a neonate with meningitis include bulging anterior fontanel, weak cry, and poor muscle tone. Headache and photophobia are signs seen in an older child

A 2-year-old child has been returned to the nursing unit after an inguinal hernia repair. Which pain assessment tool should the nurse use to assess this child for the presence of pain? a. FACES pain rating tool b. Numeric scale c. Oucher scale d. FLACC tool

ANS: D A behavioral pain tool should be used when the child is preverbal or doesn't have the language skills to express pain. The FLACC (face, legs, activity, cry, consolability) tool should be used with a 2-year-old child. The FACES, numeric, and Oucher scales are all self-report pain rating tools. Self-report measures are not sufficiently valid for children younger than 3 years of age because many are not able to accurately self-report their pain. DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply REF: p. 115 TOP: Integrated Process: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Area of Client Needs: Physiologic Integrity

The nurse is caring for a 6-year-old girl who had surgery 12 hours ago. The child tells the nurse that she does not have pain, but a few minutes later she tells her parents that she does. Which should the nurse consider when interpreting this? a. Truthful reporting of pain should occur by this age. b. Inconsistency in pain reporting suggests that pain is not present. c. Children use pain experiences to manipulate their parents. d. Children may be experiencing pain even though they deny it to the nurse.

ANS: D Children may deny pain to the nurse because they fear receiving an injectable analgesic or because they believe they deserve to suffer as a punishment for a misdeed. They may refuse to admit pain to a stranger but readily tell a parent. Truthfully reporting pain and inconsistency in pain reporting suggesting that pain is not present are common fallacies about children and pain. Pain is whatever the experiencing person says it is, whenever the person says it exists. Pain would not be questioned in an adult 12 hours after surgery. DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze REF: p. 116 TOP: Integrated Process: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Area of Client Needs: Physiologic Integrity

The nurse caring for the child in pain understands that distraction: a. Can give total pain relief to the child. b. Is effective when the child is in severe pain. c. Is the best method for pain relief. d. Must be developmentally appropriate to refocus attention.

ANS: D Distraction can be very effective in helping to control pain; however, it must be appropriate to the childs developmental level. Distraction can help control pain, but it is rarely able to provide total pain relief. Children in severe pain are not distractible. Children may use distraction to help control pain, although it is not the best method for pain relief.

The nurse should recommend medical attention if a child with a slight head injury experiences: a. sleepiness. b. vomiting, even once. c. headache, even if slight. d. confusion or abnormal behavior.

ANS: D Medical attention should be sought if the child exhibits confusion or abnormal behavior, loses consciousness, has amnesia, has fluid leaking from the nose or ears, complains of blurred vision, or has an unsteady gait. Sleepiness alone does not require evaluation. If the child is difficult to arouse from sleep, medical attention should be obtained. Vomiting more than three times requires medical attention. Severe or worsening headache or one that interferes with sleep should be evaluated.

The nurse is assessing a child who was just admitted to the hospital for observation after a head injury. Which is the most essential part of the nursing assessment to detect early signs of a worsening condition? a. Posturing b. Vital signs c. Focal neurologic signs d. Level of consciousness

ANS: D The most important nursing observation is assessment of the child's level of consciousness. Alterations in consciousness appear earlier in the progression of an injury than do alterations of vital signs or focal neurologic signs. Neurologic posturing is indicative of neurologic damage. Vital signs and focal neurologic signs are later signs of progression when compared with level-of-consciousness changes.

Which are clinical manifestations of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in infants? (Select all that apply.) a. Low-pitched cry b. Sunken fontanel c. Diplopia and blurred vision d. Irritability e. Distended scalp veins f. Increased blood pressure

ANS: D, E Diplopia and blurred vision, irritability, and distended scalp veins are signs of increased ICP in infants. Diplopia and blurred vision is indicative of ICP in children. A high-pitched cry and a tense or bulging fontanel are characteristics of increased ICP. Increased blood pressure, common in adults, is rarely seen in children.

A significant common side effect that occurs with opioid administration is euphoria. diuresis. constipation. allergic reactions.

ANS: constipation. Constipation is one of the most common side effects of opioid administration. Preventive strategies should be implemented to minimize this problem. Sedation is a more common result than euphoria. Urinary retention, not diuresis, may occur with opiates. Rarely, some individuals may have pruritus.Level of cognitive ability: KnowledgeArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: PlanningREF: p. 179

Physiologic measurements in children's pain assessment are: A.not useful as the sole indicator for pain. B.the best indicator of pain in children of all ages. C.of most value when children also report having pain. D.essential to determine whether a child is telling the truth about pain.

ANS: not useful as the sole indicator for pain. Physiologic manifestations of pain may vary considerably, so they do not provide a consistent measure of pain. Heart rate may increase or decrease. The same signs that may suggest fear, anxiety, or anger also indicate pain. In chronic pain, the body adapts, and these signs decrease or stabilize. Physiologic measurements are of limited value and must be viewed in the context of a pain rating scale, behavioral assessment, and parental report. When the child reports pain on an appropriate pain scale, the appropriate interventions should be used.Level of cognitive ability: ApplicationArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: AssessmentREF: p. 158

An injury to which part of the brain will cause a coma? a. Brainstem b. Cerebrum c. Cerebellum d. Occipital lobe

Ans: A Injury to the brainstem results in stupor and coma. Signs of damage to the cerebrum are specific to the involved area. Individuals with frontal lobe injury may have impaired memory, personality changes, or altered intellectual functioning. Individuals with damage to the cerebellum have difficulties with coordination of muscle movements, including ataxia and nystagmus. Impaired vision and functional blindness result from injury to the occipital lobe.

Which of the following is the most consistent and commonly used indicator of pain in infants? Increased respirations Increased heart rate Thrashing of arms and legs Facial expression of discomfort

Ans: Facial expression of discomfort Facial expression has consistently been validated as an indicator of pain in infants. Behavioral pain measures are most reliable for sharp procedural pain in infants. Increased heart rate and respirations are indicative of a generalized and complex response to stress. They are not specific for pain in infants. Thrashing of arms and legs is a reliable indicator in young children, not infants.Level of cognitive ability: ComprehensionArea of client needs:Psychosocial Integrity/Coping and AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: AssessmentREF: p. 152

A child who has been receiving morphine intravenously will now start receiving it orally. The nurse should anticipate that to achieve equianalgesia (equal analgesic effect), the oral dose will be which of the following? Same as the intravenous dose Greater than the intravenous dose One half of the intravenous dose One fourth of the intravenous dose

Ans: Greater than the intravenous dose Oral morphine undergoes significant metabolism from the first-pass effect. For this reason, a higher oral dose is necessary to achieve the same effect as parenteral morphine. The same dose given orally will provide less pain relief. A dose larger than the intravenous dose must be given to achieve an equianalgesic effect. Level of cognitive ability: ComprehensionArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: PlanningREF: p. 187

What clinical manifestations suggest hydrocephalus in an infant? a. Closed fontanel and high-pitched cry b. Bulging fontanel and dilated scalp veins c. Constant low-pitched cry and restlessness d. Depressed fontanel and decreased blood pressure

B Bulging fontanels, dilated scalp veins, and separated sutures are clinical manifestations of hydrocephalus in neonates. A closed fontanel, high-pitched cry, constant low-pitched cry, restlessness, a depressed fontanel, and decreased blood pressure are not clinical manifestations of hydrocephalus, but all should be referred for evaluation

An intravenous line is needed in a school-age child. The most appropriate action to provide analgesia during this procedure is to apply TAC (tetracaine, epinephrine [Adrenalin], cocaine) 15 minutes before the procedure. a transdermal fentanyl (Duragesic) patch at the site of venipuncture. EMLA (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) immediately before the procedure. LMX (4% liposomal lidocaine cream) 30 minutes before the procedure.

Ans: LMX (4% liposomal lidocaine cream) 30 minutes before the procedure. LMX is an effective analgesic agent when applied to the skin 30 minutes before a procedure. It eliminates or reduces the pain from most procedures involving skin puncture. TAC provides skin anesthesia about 15 minutes after application to nonintact skin. The gel can be placed on the wound for suturing. It is not useful for intact skin. Transdermal fentanyl patches are useful for continuous pain control, not rapid pain control. For maximum effectiveness, EMLA must be applied approximately 60 minutes in advance.Level of cognitive ability: AnalysisArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Pharmacologic and Parenteral TherapiesIntegrated process: Nursing Process: ImplementationREF: p. 177

The nurse is caring postoperatively for an 8-year-old child with multiple fractures and other trauma resulting from a motor vehicle injury. The child is experiencing severe pain. Which of the following is an important consideration in managing the child's pain? Give only an opioid analgesic at this time. Increase the dosage of analgesic until the child is adequately sedated. Plan a preventive schedule of pain medication around the clock. Give the child a clock and explain when she or he can have pain medications.

Ans: Plan a preventive schedule of pain medication around the clock. For severe postoperative pain, a preventive around-the-clock schedule is necessary to prevent decreased plasma levels of medications. The opioid analgesic will help for the present but is not an effective strategy. Increasing the dosage requires an order. The nurse should give the drug on a regular schedule and evaluate the effectiveness. Giving the child a clock and explaining when she or he can have pain medications is counterproductive. It focuses the child's attention on how long he or she will need to wait for pain relief.Level of cognitive ability: AnalysisArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: PlanningREF: p. 176

Nonpharmacologic strategies for pain management may reduce pain perception. make pharmacologic strategies unnecessary. usually take too long to implement. trick children into believing they do not have pain.

Ans: may reduce pain perception. Nonpharmacologic techniques provide coping strategies that may help reduce pain perception, make the pain more tolerable, decrease anxiety, and enhance the effectiveness of analgesics. Nonpharmacologic techniques should be learned before the pain occurs. It is best to use both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic measures for pain control. The nonpharmacologic strategy should be matched with the child's pain severity and taught to the child before the onset of the painful experience. Some of the nonpharmacologic techniques may mitigate the child's experience with mild pain, but the child will still know the discomfort was present.Level of cognitive ability: AnalysisArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: PlanningREF: p. 163

A 5-year-old has patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for pain management after abdominal surgery. Your explanation to the parents should include the child will be pain free. only the child is allowed to push the button for a bolus. the pump allows for a continuous basal rate and delivers a constant amount of medication to control pain. there is a high risk of overdose, so monitoring is done every 15 minutes.

Ans: the pump allows for a continuous basal rate and delivers a constant amount of medication to control pain. The PCA prescription can be set for a basal rate for a continued infusion of pain medication to prevent pain from returning during sleep and when the patient cannot control the infusion. Although the goal of PCA is to have effective pain relief, a pain-free state may not be possible. With a child who is 5 years old, the parents and nurse must assess the child to ensure that adequate medication is being given. A child who is 5 years old may not be able to understand the concept of pushing a button. Evidence suggests that effective analgesia can be obtained with the parents and nurse giving boluses as necessary. The prescription for the PCA includes how much medication can be given in a defined period. Monitoring every 1 to 2 hours for patient response is sufficient.Level of cognitive ability: ComprehensionArea of client needs:Physiologic Integrity/Physiologic AdaptationIntegrated process: Teaching/LearningREF: p. 176

What statement best describes a subdural hematoma? a. Bleeding occurs between the dura and the skull. b. Bleeding occurs between the dura and the cerebrum. c. Bleeding is generally arterial, and brain compression occurs rapidly. d. The hematoma commonly occurs in the parietotemporal region.

B A subdural hematoma is bleeding that occurs between the dura and the cerebrum as a result of a rupture of cortical veins that bridge the subdural space. An epidural hemorrhage occurs between the dura and the skull, is usually arterial with rapid brain concussion, and occurs most often in the parietotemporal region.

A child is on phenytoin (Dilantin). What should the nurse encourage? a. Fluid restriction b. Good dental hygiene c. A decrease in vitamin D intake d. Taking the medication with milk

B Chronic treatment with phenytoin may cause gum hypertrophy. Children taking phenobarbital or phenytoin should receive adequate vitamin D and folic acid because deficiencies of both have been associated with these drugs. The medication should not be taken with milk, and fluids should be encouraged, not restricted.

A 2-year-old child starts to have a tonic-clonic seizure. The child's jaws are clamped. What is the most important nursing action at this time? a. Place a padded tongue blade between the child's jaws. b. Stay with the child and observe his respiratory status. c. Prepare the suction equipment. d. Restrain the child to prevent injury.

B It is impossible to halt a seizure once it has begun, and no attempt should be made to do so. The nurse must remain calm, stay with the child, and prevent the child from sustaining any harm during the seizure. The nurse should not move or forcefully restrain the child during a tonic-clonic seizure and should not place a solid object between the teeth. Suctioning may be needed but not until the seizure has ended.

What term is used when a patient remains in a deep sleep, responsive only to vigorous and repeated stimulation? a. Coma b. Stupor c. Obtundation d. Persistent vegetative state

B Stupor exists when the child remains in a deep sleep, responsive only to vigorous and repeated stimulation. Coma is the state in which no motor or verbal response occurs to noxious (painful) stimuli. Obtundation describes a level of consciousness in which the child is arousable with stimulation. Persistent vegetative state describes the permanent loss of function of the cerebral cortex.

A toddler is admitted to the pediatric unit with presumptive bacterial meningitis. The initial orders include isolation, intravenous access, cultures, and antimicrobial agents. The nurse knows that antibiotic therapy will begin when? a. After the diagnosis is confirmed b. When the medication is received from the pharmacy c. After the child's fluid and electrolyte balance is stabilized d. As soon as the practitioner is notified of the culture results

B Antimicrobial therapy is begun as soon as a presumptive diagnosis is made. The choice of drug is based on the most likely infective agent. Drug choice may be adjusted when the culture results are obtained. Waiting for culture results to begin therapy increases the risk of neurologic damage. Although fluid and electrolyte balance is important, there is no indication that this child is unstable. Antibiotic therapy would be a priority intervention.

A patient receiving an intravenous opioid analgesic has become apneic. Match the nursing interventions with the step numbers in order from the highest priority (first intervention) to the lowest priority (last intervention). a. Place the patient on continuous pulse oximetry to assess SaO2. b. Administer the prescribed naloxone (Narcan) dose by slow IV push. c. Ensure oxygen is available. d. Prepare to calm the child as analgesia is reversed.

B, A, C, D

What cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis should the nurse expect with viral meningitis? (Select all that apply.) a. Color is turbid. b. Protein count is normal. c. Glucose is decreased. d. Gram stain findings are negative. e. White blood cell (WBC) count is slightly elevated.

B, D, E The CSF analysis in viral meningitis shows a normal or slightly elevated protein count, negative Gram stain, and a slightly elevated WBC. The color is clear or slightly cloudy, and the glucose level is normal.

The nurse is admitting a young child to the hospital because bacterial meningitis is suspected. What is the major priority of nursing care? A. Initiate isolation precautions as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. B. Initiate isolation precautions as soon as the causative agent is identified. C. Administer antibiotic therapy as soon as it is ordered. D. Administer sedatives and analgesics on a preventive schedule to manage pain.

C Initiation of antibiotic therapy is the priority action. Antibiotics are begun as soon as possible to prevent death and to avoid resultant disabilities. Isolation should be instituted as soon as a diagnosis is anticipated and should remain in effect until bacterial or viral origin is determined. If bacterial meningitis is ruled out, then isolation precautions can be discontinued. Isolation should be instituted as soon as a diagnosis is anticipated and should remain in effect until bacterial or viral origin is determined. If bacterial meningitis is ruled out, then isolation precautions can be discontinued. Initiation of antibiotics is the priority nursing intervention. Pain should be managed on an as-needed basis.

What statement is descriptive of a concussion? a. Petechial hemorrhages cause amnesia. b. Visible bruising and tearing of cerebral tissue occur. c. It is a transient and reversible neuronal dysfunction. d. It is a slight lesion that develops remote from the site of trauma.

C A concussion is a transient, reversible neuronal dysfunction with instantaneous loss of awareness and responsiveness resulting from trauma to the head. Petechial hemorrhages on the superficial aspects of the brain along the point of impact are a type of contusion but are not necessarily associated with amnesia. A contusion is visible bruising and tearing of cerebral tissue. Contrecoup is a lesion that develops remote from the site of trauma as a result of an acceleration-deceleration injury.

A child has been seizure free for 2 years. A father asks the nurse how much longer the child will need to take the antiseizure medications. How should the nurse respond? a. Medications can be discontinued at this time. b. The child will need to take the drugs for 5 years after the last seizure. c. A step-wise approach will be used to reduce the dosage gradually. d. Seizure disorders are a lifelong problem. Medications cannot be discontinued.

C A predesigned protocol is used to wean a child gradually off antiseizure medications, usually when the child is seizure free for 2 years. Medications must be gradually reduced to minimize the recurrence of seizures. The risk of recurrence is greatest within 6 months after discontinuation.

A 10-year-old boy on a bicycle has been hit by a car in front of a school. The school nurse immediately assesses airway, breathing, and circulation. What should be the next nursing action? a. Place the child on his side. b. Take the child's blood pressure. c. Stabilize the child's neck and spine. d. Check the child's scalp and back for bleeding.

C After determining that the child is breathing and has adequate circulation, the next action is to stabilize the neck and spine to prevent any additional trauma. The child's position should not be changed until the neck and spine are stabilized. Blood pressure is a later assessment. A less urgent but important assessment is inspection of the scalp for bleeding.

The nurse is discussing long-term care with the parents of a child who has a ventriculoperitoneal shunt to correct hydrocephalus. An important part of the discussion with the parents is that A. parental protection is essential until the child reaches adulthood. B. mental retardation is to be expected with hydrocephalus. C. shunt malfunction or infection requires immediate treatment. D. most usual childhood activities must be restricted.

C Because of the potentially severe sequelae, symptoms of shunt malfunction or infection must be assessed and treated immediately if present. Limits should be appropriate to the child's developmental age. Except for contact sports, the child will have few restrictions. The development of mental retardation depends on the extent of damage before the shunt was placed. Limits should be appropriate to the child's developmental age. Except for contact sports, the child will have few restrictions.

What term refers to seizures that involve both hemispheres of the brain? a. Absence b. Acquired c. Generalized d. Complex partial

C Clinical observations of generalized seizures indicate that the initial involvement is from both hemispheres. Absence seizures have a sudden onset and are characterized by a brief loss of consciousness, a blank stare, and automatisms. Acquired seizure disorder is a result of a brain injury from a variety of factors; it is not a term that labels the type of seizure. Complex partial seizures are the most common seizures. They may begin with an aura and be manifested as repetitive involuntary activities without purpose, carried out in a dreamy state.

What finding is a clinical manifestation of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in children? a. Low-pitched cry b. Sunken fontanel c. Diplopia, blurred vision d. Increased blood pressure

C Diplopia and blurred vision are signs of increased ICP in children. A high-pitched cry and a tense or bulging fontanel are characteristic of increased ICP. Increased blood pressure, common in adults, is rarely seen in children.

A pregnant woman asks about prenatal diagnosis of hydrocephalus. The nurse's response should be based on which knowledge? a. It can be diagnosed only after birth. b. It can be diagnosed by chromosome studies. c. It can be diagnosed with fetal ultrasonography. d. It can be diagnosed by measuring the lecithin-to-sphingomyelin ratio.

C Hydrocephalus can be diagnosed by fetal ultrasonography as early as 14 weeks of gestation. Most incidents of hydrocephalus are not chromosomal in origin. The lecithin-to-sphingomyelin ratio can be used to determine fetal lung maturity.

After a tonic-clonic seizure, what symptoms should the nurse expect the child to experience? a. Diarrhea and abdominal discomfort b. Irritability and hunger c. Lethargy and confusion d. Nervousness and excitability

C In the postictal phase, after a tonic-clonic seizure, the child may remain semiconscious and difficult to arouse. The average duration of the postictal phase is usually 30 minutes. The child may remain confused or sleep for several hours. He or she may have mild impairment of fine motor movements. The child may have visual and speech difficulties and may vomit or complain of headache.

What is the initial clinical manifestation of generalized seizures? a. Confusion b. Feeling frightened c. Loss of consciousness d. Seeing flashing lights

C Loss of consciousness is a frequent occurrence in generalized seizures and is the initial clinical manifestation. Being confused, feeling frightened, and seeing flashing lights are clinical manifestations of a complex partial seizure.

What term is used to describe a child's level of consciousness when the child is arousable with stimulation? a. Stupor b. Confusion c. Obtundation d. Disorientation

C Obtundation describes a level of consciousness in which the child is arousable with stimulation. Stupor is a state in which the child remains in a deep sleep, responsive only to vigorous and repeated stimulation. Confusion is impaired decision making. Disorientation is confusion regarding time and place.

What nursing intervention is appropriate when caring for an unconscious child? a. Avoid using narcotics or sedatives to provide comfort and pain relief. b. Change the child's position infrequently to minimize the chance of increased intracranial pressure (ICP). c. Monitor fluid intake and output carefully to avoid fluid overload and cerebral edema. d. Give tepid sponge baths to reduce fevers above 38.3° C (101° F) because antipyretics are contraindicated.

C Often comatose patients cannot cope with the quantity of fluids that they normally tolerate. Overhydration must be avoided to prevent fatal cerebral edema. Narcotics and sedatives should be used as necessary to reduce pain and anxiety, which can increase ICP. The child's position should be changed frequently to avoid complications such as pneumonia and skin breakdown. Antipyretics are the method of choice for fever reduction.

A young child is having a seizure that has lasted 35 minutes. There is a loss of consciousness. Based on the nurse's knowledge of seizures, the nurse recognizes this as A. absence seizure. B. generalized seizure. C. status epilepticus. D. simple partial seizure.

C Status epilepticus is a generalized seizure that lasts more than 30 minutes. This is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Absence seizures are generalized seizures that are characterized by brief losses of consciousness, blank staring, and fluttering of the eyelids. Generalized seizures are the most common form of seizures. They include tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and absence (petit mal) seizures. Tonic-clonic seizures have tonic-clonic activity and loss of consciousness and involve both hemispheres of the brain. Simple partial seizures are characterized by varying sensations and motor behaviors.

A 5-year-old girl sustained a concussion when she fell out of a tree. In preparation for discharge, the nurse is discussing home care with her mother. What sign or symptom is considered a manifestation of postconcussion syndrome and does not necessitate medical attention? a. Vomiting b. Blurred vision c. Behavioral changes d. Temporary loss of consciousness

C The parents are advised of probable posttraumatic symptoms that may be expected. These include behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, emotional lability, and alterations in school performance. If the child is vomiting, has blurred vision, or has temporary loss of consciousness, she should be seen for evaluation.

The nurse is preparing to admit a 7-year-old child with complex partial seizures. What clinical features of complex partial seizures should the nurse recognize? (Select all that apply.) a. They last less than 10 seconds. b. There is usually no aura. c. Mental disorientation is common. d. There is frequently a postictal state. e. There is usually an impaired consciousness.

C, D, E Clinical features of complex partial seizures include the following: it is common to have mental disorientation, there is frequently a postictal state, and there is usually an impaired consciousness. These seizures last longer than 10 seconds (usually longer than 60 seconds), and there is usually an aura.

The nurse is caring for a child with an epidural hematoma. The nurse should assess for what signs that can indicate Cushing triad? (Select all that apply.) a. Fever b. Flushing c. Bradycardia d. Systemic hypertension e. Respiratory depression

C, D, E Cushing triad (systemic hypertension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression) is a late sign of impending brainstem herniation. Fever or flushing does not occur with Cushing triad.

The nurse is caring for a child with a subdural hematoma. The nurse should assess for what signs that can indicate brainstem compression? (Select all that apply.) a. Coma b. Lethargy c. Hemiplegia d. Hemiparesis e. Unequal pupils

C, D, E Hemiparesis, hemiplegia, and anisocoria (unequal pupils) are signs of brainstem compression and require emergency treatment targeted at decreasing increased intracranial pressure. Coma and lethargy are seen with a subdural hematoma but do not indicate a brainstem compression

A child has a seizure disorder. What test should be done to gather the most specific information about the type of seizure the child is having? a. Sleep study b. Skull radiography c. Serum electrolytes d. Electroencephalogram (EEG)

D An EEG is obtained for all children with seizures and is the most useful tool for evaluating a seizure disorder. The EEG confirms the presence of abnormal electrical discharges and provides information on the seizure type and the focus. The EEG is carried out under varying conditions—with the child asleep, awake, awake with provocative stimulation (flashing lights, noise), and hyperventilating. Stimulation may elicit abnormal electrical activity, which is recorded on the EEG. Various seizure types produce characteristic EEG patterns: high-voltage spike discharges are seen in tonic-clonic seizures, with abnormal patterns in the intervals between seizures; a three-per-second spike and wave pattern is observed in an absence seizure; and absence of electrical activity in an area suggests a large lesion, such as an abscess or subdural collection of fluid

A child is admitted for revision of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for noncommunicating hydrocephalus. What is a common reason for elective revision of this shunt? a. Meningitis b. Gastrointestinal upset c. Hydrocephalus resolution d. Growth of the child since the initial shunting

D An elective revision of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt would most likely be done to accommodate the child's growth. Meningitis would require an emergent replacement or revision of the shunt. Gastrointestinal upset alone would not indicate the need for shunt revision. Noncommunicating hydrocephalus will not resolve without surgical intervention.

What is the antiepileptic medication that requires monitoring of vitamin D and folic acid? a. Topiramate (Topamax) b. Valproic acid (Depakene) c. Gabapentin (Neurontin) d. Phenobarbital (Luminal)

D Children taking phenobarbital or phenytoin should receive adequate vitamin D and folic acid because deficiencies of both have been associated with these drugs.

The mother of a 1-month-old infant tells the nurse she worries that her baby will get meningitis like the child's younger brother had when he was an infant. The nurse should base a response on which information? a. Meningitis rarely occurs during infancy. b. Often a genetic predisposition to meningitis is found. c. Vaccination to prevent all types of meningitis is now available. d. Vaccinations to prevent pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B meningitis are available.

D H. influenzae type B meningitis has been virtually eradicated in areas of the world where the vaccine is administered routinely. Bacterial meningitis remains a serious illness in children. It is significant because of the residual damage caused by undiagnosed and untreated or inadequately treated cases. The leading causes of neonatal meningitis are the group B streptococci and Escherichia coli organisms. Meningitis is an extension of a variety of bacterial infections. No genetic predisposition exists. Vaccinations are not available for all of the potential causative organisms.

A 6-year-old child is admitted for revision of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for noncommunicating hydrocephalus. What sign or symptom does the child have that indicates a revision is necessary? a. Tachycardia b. Gastrointestinal upset c. Hypotension d. Alteration in level of consciousness

D In older children, who are usually admitted to the hospital for elective or emergency shunt revision, the most valuable indicators of increasing intracranial pressure are an alteration in the child's level of consciousness, complaint of headache, and changes in interaction with the environment.

A 23-month-old child is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of meningitis. She is lethargic and very irritable with a temperature of 102° F. What should the nurse's care plan include? a. Observing the child's voluntary movement b. Checking the Babinski reflex every 4 hours c. Checking the Brudzinski reflex every 1 hour d. Assessing the level of consciousness (LOC) and vital signs every 2 hours

D Observation of vital signs, neurologic signs, LOC, urinary output, and other pertinent data is carried out at frequent intervals on a child with meningitis. The nurse should avoid actions that cause pain or increase discomfort, such as lifting the child's head, so the Brudzinski reflex should not be checked hourly. Checking the Babinski reflex or child's voluntary movements will not help with assessing the child's status.

The nurse is assessing a child who was just admitted to the hospital for observation after a head injury. What clinical manifestation is the most essential part of the nursing assessment to detect early signs of a worsening condition? a. Posturing b. Vital signs c. Focal neurologic signs d. Level of consciousness

D The most important nursing observation is assessment of the child's level of consciousness. Alterations in consciousness appear earlier in the progression of an injury than do alterations of vital signs or focal neurologic signs. Neurologic posturing is indicative of neurologic damage.

The most appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a child experiencing a seizure is to A. restrain the child when a seizure occurs to prevent bodily harm. B. place a padded tongue between the teeth if they become clenched. C. suction the child during the seizure to prevent aspiration. D. described and document the seizure activity observed.

D The priority nursing intervention is to observe the child and seizure and document the activity observed. The child should not be restrained, because this may cause an injury. Nothing should be placed in the child's mouth, because this may cause an injury not only to the child but to the nurse. To prevent aspiration, the child should be placed on the side if possible to facilitate drainage.

What is a nursing intervention to reduce the risk of increasing intracranial pressure (ICP) in an unconscious child? a. Suction the child frequently. b. Turn the child's head side to side every hour. c. Provide environmental stimulation. d. Avoid activities that cause pain or crying.

D Unrelieved pain, crying, and emotional stress all contribute to increasing the ICP. Disturbing procedures should be carried out at the same time as therapies that reduce ICP, such as sedation. Suctioning is poorly tolerated by children. When necessary, it is preceded by hyperventilation with 100% oxygen. Turning the head side to side is contraindicated for fear of compressing the jugular vein. This would block the flow of blood from the brain, raising ICP. Nontherapeutic touch and environmental stimulation increase ICP. Minimizing both touch and environmental stimuli noise reduces ICP.

Which of the following self-report pain rating scales can be used in children as young as 3 years of age? Poker Chip Tool Visual Analog Scale FACES Pain Rating Scale Word-Graphic Rating Scale

FACES Pain Rating Scale The Poker Chip Tool has been validated for children 4 years of age who have been determined to have the cognitive ability to identify the larger of two numbers. The Visual Analog Scale can be used for children older than 4 years of age but is most appropriate for ages 7 and older. The FACES Pain Rating Scale is for children as young as 3 years of age. The Word-Graphic Rating Scale uses descriptive words and is recommended for children 4 to 17 years of age.Level of cognitive ability: ComprehensionArea of client needs:Psychosocial Integrity/Coping and AdaptationIntegrated process: Nursing Process: AssessmentREF: p. 155