Exam #5 Flashcards
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a group of birth defects in which malformations of the __________ and __________ __________ occur and the structures lack protection of soft tissue and bone. NTDs develop when the neural tube fails to close during fetal development.
brain and spinal cord
Spina Bifida is a __________ __________ defect.
neural tube
Risk factors for Spina Bifida
o Poor nutrition
o Prolonged hyperthermia
o DM
o Seizure meds
Least severe form of Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida Occulta
CSF fluid filled sac w/ no nerve endings or spinal cord in it
Meningocele
May be a closed or open sac containing nerve endings and/or spinal cord. Most severe form of Spina Bifida.
Myelomeningocele
Spina Bifida management after delivery
o Keep patient prone
o Moist, sterile dressing on defect
o Laminectomy
Spina Bifida management in utero
surgical repair
Spina Bifida management after surgery
o Post-op care: wound, VS (NO RECTAL TEMPS), antibiotics, pain control
o Manage neurological deficits
▪ Bowel/bladder training- anticholinergics and antispasmodics to help with continence and spasms
▪ Constipation/impaction is common
▪ Straight cath
o Head circumference measurements (hydrocephalus)
o Skin care & mobility
Fluid and pressure buildup in the ventricles and intracranial vault due to
-increase of CSF production
-Impedance to absorption
-obstruction to flow
Hydrocephalus
S/sx of Hydrocephalus
-Increased ICP if disorder is severe enough
-Sun-setting eyes
-Prominent forehead/enlarged
-Difficulty holding head upright
Treatment for Hydrocephalus
Shunt
Usually ventriculoperitoneal
When does shunt infection or malfunction typically occur?
Can happen at any time
Most often 1-3 months after placement
Common s/sx of shunt infection/malfunction
NV
HA
Bulging fontanels
Change in customary behavior
Lethargy, unresponsiveness, sunset eyes
Elevated temp.
Shunt reminders
-do not allow child to lie on shunt side continuously
-no contact sports
-prophylactic antibiotics w/ dental & surgical procedures
How do we determine a child’s LOC?
-observation
-using the pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale
-subjective (caregiver history)
Patient answers appropriately while opening his eyes and responding fully.
What state of LOC?
alertness
Technique: speak in a normal tone of voice
Patient opens his eyes but appears drowsy; answers questions appropriately but falls asleep easily.
What state of LOC?
Lethargy
Technique: speak in a loud voice
Patient opens his eyes and looks at the stimuli; appears slightly confused; alertness & interest in surroundings are decreased.
What state of LOC?
Obtundation
Technique: shake gently to arouse
Patient only responds to painful stimuli; verbal responses are absent or slow. Responsiveness to painful stimuli ceases.
What state of LOC?
Stupor
Technique: use painful stimuli
Patient does not respond to internal or external stimuli; they remain in an unaroused state with eyes closed.
Coma
Technique: apply repeated painful stimuli
What are the three parts to the Glasgow Coma Scale?
▪ Eyes
▪ Verbal response
▪ Motor response
Glasgow Score 9-15
Unaltered Consciousness
Glasgow Score 4-8
Coma