Care of Mother, Child at Risk or with Problem (Acute & Chronic)

These flashcards cover critical vocabulary terms and definitions related to pediatric conditions and care.

Hydrocephalus

An imbalance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption or production resulting in head enlargement and increased intracranial pressure.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production

is produced by the choroid plexus in the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles at a rate of 0.3–0.35 ml/min.

Communicating Hydrocephalus

Occurs due to impaired absorption of CSF within the subarachnoid space.

Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus

Occurs as a result of excess CSF due to structural blockage within the ventricular system.

Macewen’s sign

A cracked-pot sound produced by percussion of the skull, indicating increased head circumference.

Anterior fontanel

The soft spot on an infant's skull that may be tense, bulging, and non-pulsating in hydrocephalus.

Signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in infants

Includes increased irritability, sluggish pupils, and a high, shrill cry.

Meningitis

An infectious process of the central nervous system caused by bacteria or viruses.

Bacterial meningitis diagnosis

Made by testing CSF from a lumbar puncture which shows cloudy fluid with increased pressure and white blood cells.

Haemophilus influenzae

A common cause of bacterial meningitis.

Kernig’s sign

Inability to extend the leg when the thigh is flexed at the hip, associated with meningitis.

Brudzinski’s sign

Neck flexion causes involuntary lifting of the legs in meningitis.

Spina bifida occulta

A type of neural tube defect; posterior vertebral arches fail to close, leaving the spinal cord intact.

Meningocele

Protrusion of meninges and a sac-like cyst containing CSF through a spinal defect.

Myelomeningocele

Protrusion of the meninges, CSF, and part of the spinal cord; associated with neurological deficits.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)

Neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication.

Cerebral Palsy

A disorder characterized by impaired movement, posture, and muscle tone due to motor system abnormalities.

Hirschsprung’s disease

A congenital anomaly causing absence of ganglion cells in the rectum leading to intestinal obstruction.

Intussusception

Telescoping of one part of the bowel into another, causing obstruction.

Burn injuries in toddlers

Increased risk due to thinner skin; requires specific first aid measures.

Parkland Formula

Formula used to calculate fluid resuscitation needs based on burn area.

Impetigo

A highly contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by honey-colored crusts and blisters.

Scabies

A parasitic skin disorder caused by itch mites; results in pruritic rash.

Pediculosis capitis

Infestation of the hair and scalp with lice.

Medical management of leukemia

Includes chemotherapy and possibly radiation therapy; focuses on managing complications.

Protection from infection in leukemia

Includes strict handwashing and protective isolation of the child.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

An autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting joints with no cure, requiring supportive treatment.

Lead poisoning

Excess lead accumulation causing various health effects, often from contaminated sources.

Acetaminophen overdose

May cause malaise, nausea, vomiting, and potential hepatic involvement.

Aspirin overdose

Can lead to nausea, vomiting, hyperpnea, and metabolic acidosis.

Corrosive poisoning

Caused by ingestion of harmful household substances; treatment involves dilution.

Child abuse

Non-accidental injury or omission of care toward a child, including neglect and physical harm.

Nephroblastoma (Wilms’ Tumor)

Most common intra-abdominal and kidney tumor in childhood, often requiring surgical intervention.

Asthma

Chronic inflammatory airway disease requiring management of symptoms and allergens.

Status asthmaticus

A severe asthma attack unresponsive to typical treatments, requiring emergency intervention.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus

Characterized by destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to insulin deficiency.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Usually arises from insulin resistance and is associated with being overweight in children.

Rheumatic fever

An autoimmune disease affecting connective tissues, often following untreated streptococcal infections.

Jones criteria

A set of criteria used to diagnose rheumatic fever based on major and minor manifestations.

Management of pediatric burns

Includes fluid resuscitation and careful monitoring of injury extent and healing.

Diabetic ketoacidosis

A serious complication of diabetes leading to increased blood acidity and requires immediate care.

Comfort measures for children

Include pain management, home care education, and emotional support for chronic conditions.