The nurse is caring for a child with a subdural hematoma. The ...

[nevelica]

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

Question 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

[momtoalll]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 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.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 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. In infants younger than 1 year of age, the most common symptoms are irritability, pallor with anemia, and cephalhematoma.

[nevelica]

Thank you

[momtoalll]

No problemo