Week 11 - Neurological Alterations Flashcards

When does CNS development begin in gestation?

The 4th week of gestation.

Until what age does rapid CNS growth continue?

5 years of age.

What is the role of myelination in neurological development?

It aids in motor control development, starting at 16 weeks gestation.

What is a nurse's role in monitoring CNS development?

Recognize normal and abnormal developmental milestones.

What does the Pediatric GCS assess?

Cognitive, motor, and sensory function.

Why is age-appropriate neurological behavior important in GCS?

To accurately interpret responses based on developmental stage.

What is the lowest score on the Pediatric GCS?

3, indicating deep coma or death.

What does a score of 8 or lower on the GCS indicate?

Severe brain injury or neurological compromise.

What causes hydrocephalus?

Increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain ventricles.

What are early signs of hydrocephalus in infants?

Bulging fontanel, increased head circumference, and irritability.

What is the primary treatment for hydrocephalus?

Placement of a VP shunt.

What complications should nurses monitor for in VP shunts?

Infection and obstruction.

What are early signs of increased ICP?

Irritability, nausea, and headache.

What are late signs of increased ICP?

Altered pupillary response, bradycardia, and posturing.

What medications are used to manage ICP?

Mannitol and corticosteroids.

What is the primary nursing intervention for increased ICP?

Monitor neurological status and maintain head elevation.

What are the main types of head injuries?

Concussion, contusion, and fractures.

What are severe symptoms of head injury?

Loss of consciousness, seizures, and persistent vomiting.

What is a priority in nursing care for head injuries?

Stabilize the patient and monitor for increased ICP.

What prevention measures should nurses educate families about?

Helmet use and supervision during activities.

What are the types of meningitis?

Viral (aseptic) and bacterial (septic).

What are key symptoms of meningitis?

Fever, nuchal rigidity, and positive Brudzinski/Kernig signs.

How is bacterial meningitis treated?

With antibiotics.

What vaccination helps prevent bacterial meningitis?

The meningococcal vaccine.

What are the types of generalized seizures?

Tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic, and atonic.

What is a focal seizure?

A seizure affecting one area of the brain, causing motor, sensory, or awareness changes.

What should a nurse do during a seizure?

Ensure safety, position the patient side-lying, and monitor oxygenation.

What is status epilepticus?

A seizure lasting longer than 30 minutes or recurrent seizures without recovery.

What critical signs indicate a neurological emergency?

Status epilepticus, signs of herniation, or severe infections.

How can nurses support families of children with neurological conditions?

Provide education, emotional support, and resources for chronic condition management.

What role does folic acid play in CNS development?

It helps prevent neural tube defects during early gestation.

Why is CNS myelination important after birth?

It enhances motor skill development and reflex maturation.

What does a GCS score of 9–12 indicate?

Moderate brain injury.

Which three categories are evaluated in the GCS?

Eye opening, verbal response, and motor response.

What is an example of an age-appropriate motor response in infants?

Spontaneous movement or withdrawal from pain.

What is a common symptom of hydrocephalus in older children?

Headache and difficulty with balance or coordination.

What teaching point is essential for families managing a VP shunt?

Recognizing signs of shunt malfunction, such as irritability or vomiting.

How is head circumference monitoring used in hydrocephalus?

To detect abnormal increases in infants.

What is Cushing's triad, and what does it indicate?

Bradycardia, hypertension, and irregular respiration; it signals late-stage increased ICP.

What positioning helps reduce ICP in pediatric patients?

Elevating the head of the bed 15–30 degrees.

Why should suctioning be limited in patients with increased ICP?

It can elevate intracranial pressure.

What is the hallmark symptom of a concussion?

Temporary loss of consciousness and confusion.

Why is repeated vomiting after a head injury concerning?

It may indicate increased ICP or brain injury.

What type of skull fracture is most concerning in children?

A basilar skull fracture, due to the risk of brainstem injury or CSF leakage.

What is the difference between Brudzinski’s and Kernig’s signs?

Brudzinski: Neck flexion causes knee/hip flexion. Kernig: Pain with knee extension when the hip is flexed.

What laboratory finding is common in bacterial meningitis?

Increased CSF white blood cells and protein, with decreased glucose.

What is the priority nursing action during a febrile seizure?

Lower the child’s temperature and ensure a safe environment.

What medication is commonly used for status epilepticus?

Benzodiazepines like lorazepam or diazepam.

How does vaccination help prevent meningitis?

It reduces the incidence of bacterial infections like Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and pneumococcus.

What is an essential safety tip for sports to prevent head injuries?

Ensuring proper helmet fit and use during all activities.