OB/Peds Final Flashcards
Neural Tube Defects
Most often caused by failure of neural tube closure at either the cranial (top) or the caudal (end) of the spinal cord. Ex: Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida
Hydrocephalus
A condition characterized by an increase of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricles of the brain, causing pressure changes in the brain and an increase in head size.
Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus
Results from the obstruction of CSF flow from the ventricles of the brain to the subarachnoid space.
Communicating Hydrocephalus
Results when CSF in not obstructed in the ventricles but is inadequately reabsorbed in the subarachnoid space.
Manifestations of Hydrocephalus
Increase in head size, bulging fontanelles, shiny scalp, dilated veins, sclera may be seen above above the pupils “setting sun look”. Infant is helpless and lethargic, body becomes thin, poor muscle tone of extremities, shrill high pitched cry, irritability, vomiting, anorexia, convulsions. In older children headache is predominant, cognitive slowing, personality changes, spasticity, and other neuro signs.
Transillumination
The inspection of a cavity or organ by passing light through its walls, useful in visualizing fluid. A small ring of light is normal but a large halo effect is not.
Diagnosing Hydrocephalus
Transillumination. Head is measured daily. Ventricular tap or puncture may be performed using sterile technique to determine pressure or drain CSF.
Tx of Hydrocephalus
Acetazolamide and furosemide reduces production of CSF. Surgery to shunt the point of obstruction so CSF is carried to another part of the body where it is absorbed and excreted. (Ventriculoperitoneal shunt)
Nursing Care of Hydrocephalus
Position must be changed frequently to prevent pneumonia and pressure sores, the head must always be supported, tissue of the head ears and bony prominences tend to breakdown. Infant needs to be held for feedings, side-lying position after feedings, infant is not disturbed once settled because vomiting occurs easily.
Symptoms of Increased Pressure within the Head
Increase in BP and a decrease in HR and RR
Spina Bifida
AKA: Myelodysplasia. A group of central nervous system disorders characterized my malformation of the spinal cord. It is a congenital embryonic neural tube defect in which there is an imperfect closure of the spinal vertebrae.
Spina Bifida Occulta
(hidden)…the opening is small and there is no associated protrusion of structures. Often goes undetected and occurs most often at L5 and S1 levels. Tx is not necessary unless neuromuscular symptoms appear.
Symptoms of Spina Bifida Occulta
Progressive disturbance of gait, such as footdrop, or disturbances of bowel and bladder sphincter function.
Spina Bifida Cystica
Consists of the development of a cystic mass in the midline of the opening in the spine.
Meningocele
Contains portions of the membranes and CSF. Size varies from a walnut to that of a newborns head.