What is the cause of hydrocephalus?
↑ CSF → ↑ ICPS/S
In infants, signs include bulging fontanel, sunset eyes, high-pitched cry, and ↑ head circumference. In kids, symptoms include headache, nausea/vomiting, and blurred vision.
List the signs and symptoms of meningitis.
- Nuchal rigidity
- Photophobia
- Petechial rash
- Irritability
- Positive Brudzinski/Kernig
Bacterial meningitis is an emergency requiring droplet precautions, IV antibiotics, and seizure precautions.
What are the nursing interventions for a patient experiencing seizures?
- Turn on side
- Time it
- Clear area
- O2 & suction available
- Do NOT restrain or put anything in mouth
Common causes of seizures include fever, infection, and head trauma.
What are the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy?
- Persistent primitive reflexes
- Toe-walking
- Scissoring legs
- Spasticity
Treatment includes baclofen, diazepam, and physical/occupational therapy.
What are the types of spina bifida?
- Occulta
- Meningocele
- Myelomeningocele
Newborn care includes a sterile, moist, non-adherent dressing and positioning the infant prone.
What is the treatment for scoliosis with a curvature of 25–45°?
Brace (wear 23 hr/day)
For curvatures less than 25°, observation is recommended; for curvatures over 45°, surgery may be necessary.
What are common signs of fractures?
- Crepitus
- Swelling
- Deformity
Cast care includes ice for the first 24–48 hours and checking for compartment syndrome (5 P’s).
What are the signs and symptoms of Hirschsprung Disease?
- Delayed meconium
- Ribbon stools
- Distention
Risk of enterocolitis includes fever and bloody diarrhea; treatment involves bowel surgery.
What is the classic symptom of pyloric stenosis?
Projectile vomiting
Other signs include an olive-shaped mass, dehydration, and metabolic alkalosis. Treatment is pylorotomy.
What is the triad of symptoms for intussusception?
- Sudden pain → drawing knees up
- Currant jelly stools
- Sausage mass
Treatment includes air enema as the first line.
What are the signs of gastroenteritis?
- Sunken fontanel
- ↓ Tears
- ↓ Urine
Risk of dehydration; treatment includes oral rehydration (Pedialyte).
What are the 3 C’s of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF)?
- Coughing
- Choking
- Cyanosis
Priority interventions include airway management, NPO status, NG suction, and surgery.
What is the pain location for appendicitis?
RLQ (McBurney’s)
If sudden pain relief occurs, it may indicate a possible rupture.
What should you avoid in a patient with Wilms tumor?
Palpating the abdomen
This is to prevent the risk of rupture or metastasis.
What is the feeding technique for infants with cleft lip/palate?
- Special nipple
- Upright position
- Burp often
Post-op care includes no objects in the mouth and positioning on the side/back (not prone).
What is the cause of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?
Autoimmune destruction of beta cells
Symptoms include polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss. DKA treatment involves fluids, insulin drip, and correcting electrolytes.
What are the key signs of cystic fibrosis?
- Salty skin
- Chronic infections
- Steatorrhea
- Clubbing
Treatment includes pancreatic enzymes with meals, high calorie/protein diet, CPT, bronchodilators, and nebulizers.
What should be monitored after a tonsillectomy?
- Frequent swallowing
- Clearing throat
Diet should include cold fluids, avoiding red foods and straws. Pain management includes ice collar and acetaminophen.
What are the rescue and control medications for asthma?
- Rescue: Albuterol
- Control: Inhaled steroids
Status asthmaticus is an emergency requiring preparation for intubation.
What is the risk associated with streptococcal pharyngitis?
Rheumatic fever
It is important to finish the entire antibiotic course; kids are contagious for 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
What should you not do in a patient with epiglottitis?
Use a tongue depressor
This condition is an emergency; treatment includes intubation preparation and antibiotics.
What are the signs of bronchiolitis (RSV)?
- Wheezing
- Tachypnea
- Retractions
Treatment includes suctioning, hydration, and oxygen; droplet + contact precautions are necessary.
What are the signs of laryngotracheobronchitis (Croup)?
- Barking cough
- Inspiratory stridor
Treatment includes cool mist, racemic epinephrine, and dexamethasone; avoid throat exams as they can worsen obstruction.
