PEDS HESI Growth and Development,100% CORRECT

PEDS HESI Growth and Development - Client safety is the hallmark of nursing. The fundamental components of nursing practice include nursing process integrated w/ caring, communication, and spirituality, teaching, and learning aswell as documentation of the integration of each of these elements - Erikson (Psychosocial) – TM,AS,IG,II,IRC,II -TMASIGIIIRCII o Trust vs mistrust (birth-1 year)  Having parents hold their child while in the hospital is an excellent means of building the trust relationship o Autonomy vs shame and doubt (1-3 year) o Initiative vs guilt (3-6 year) o Industry vs inferiority (6-12 year)  Academic performance  sense of industry = completing hw, staying on track w/ classmates o Identity vs role confusion (12-18) o Intimacy vs isolation (18+) - Piaget (cognitive) - SPCF o Sensorimotor period (birth-2 year) o Preoperational thought (2-4 year) o Concrete operation (7-11 year) o Formal operation (11-15 year) - Kohlberg (moral) NE,PO,IH&CR, GBGG &LO, SC & PP & UP) o Infancy - Naiveté and egocentricism o Toddler - Punish-obedience orientation o Early childhood - Instrumental hedonism and concrete reciprocity o Middle - childhood Good boy or good girl orientation, Law and order orientation o Adolescence - Social contract orientation, Personal principle orientation, Universal principle orientation - Denver developmental test o Evaluates children from 1mo-6 years: gross motor skills, fine motor skills, language development, and personal/social development - Infant (birth  1 year) o Birth weight DOUBLES by 6 months, TRIPLES, by 12 months (if baby was born 9lbs, by 6 months, they would be 12lbs and by 1 y/o they would be 18lbs)  Newborns can lose up to 10% of their weight w/o concern, but should regain their birth weight by 2 weeks of age o Newborn vaccine: Hep B  birth-2 months (usually given prior to discharge) o Birth length INCREASES by 50%/doubles by 12 months o Posterior fontanel closes in 2-3 months, anterior fontanel closes in 12-18 months o Heart rate: 110-160 (birth-1mo) o Anticipatory guidance  Separation anxiety (begins around 6 months to 30 months): if parents are not able to be w/ the infant (ex: hospitalization), baby may be inconsolable  Aspiration is a common cause if injury/death at this age – often find small things on the floor and put them in their mouths (older siblings often responsible for leaving around small objects) o Nutrition  Infants should be started on vegetables prior to fruits. The sweetness of fruits may inhibit infants from taking vegetables  Full term infants have iron stores that last approx. 4-6 months  Premature infants have iron stores form the mother that last approx. 2 months, so it is important to introduce an iron supplement by 2 months of age o Hospitalization/nursing implications  Emerging skills may disappear  Plan & encourage to have parents as part of infant’s care • Infants are more secure when in proximity to the parents – the parent’s lap = excellent place to assess the child  Prep and teach family, but speak & console infant (esp. during pain/stress)  Toys: mobiles, rattles, squeaking toys, picture books, balls, colored blocks, and activity boxes (ex: musical rattle  infants have short attention span and enjoy auditory/visual stimulation  The nurse should not deliver more than 1mL/injection to a 6mo old  Medications should never be mixed in a large amount of food/formula b/c you can’t be sure child will take the entire feeding  Formula decreases the absorption of iron - Knowledge of normal growth and development Is used to evaluate interventions and therapy o Ex: what behavior would indicate that thyroid hormone therapy for a 4 month old is effective? (what milestones are accomplished at 4 months?) o Head control – milestone is met? indicates replacement therapy is adequate for growth - Toddler (1-3 years) o Birth weight QUADRUPLES by 30 months, achieves 50% of adult height by 2 y/o o Varicella vaccine o Anticipatory guidance  Engage in parallel play  play alongside child, but rarely engage in activities w/ the other child  Freud/Erickson  toilet training is the essential event that must be mastered by the toddler  Very egocentric, do not consider needs of others (children) o Hospitalization/Nursing implications  Simple explanations right before procedures (1 y/o vs 3 y/o explanations differ)  Enforced separation from parents (hospitalization) = greatest threat to toddler’s physiological/emotional integrity (teach parents to tell child they’ll be back!)  Common stressors of the hospitalized toddler • Interrupted routine, sleep pattern disturbances, fear of being hurt  Very important to maintain a child’s home routine when parents are present and when not – increase child’s sense of security and decrease anxiety  Provide security objects/favorite toys from home  Respect & implement routine as much as possible  REGRESSION (aka bedwetting)  Toys: board and mallet, push-pull, toy phones, stuffed animals, storybooks w/pictures – playroom if able (mobility is important to development)  Very basic explanations  Toddlers learning to name body parts/concerned about their bodies  Autonomy: provide guided choices when appropriate, allow to participate in actions of which they are capable - Preschool (3-6 years) o Gains 5lbs/year and grows 2.5 to 3 inches o Posture: erect, more slender o Vision: 22/20 o Respirations: 20-30bpm o Runs, jumps, skips, hops, establishes handedness, and learns colors and shapes. o 3 y/o: tricycle o Falls: common injury o 4 y/o: use scissors also has aggressiveness o 5 y/o: ties shoelaces aggressiveness becomes independence) o Learns sexual identity (curiosity, masturbation – common) o Imaginary playmates and fears = common o Literal thinkers (ex: child’s parents say Grandpa is in heaven, so she will think they are in heaven when they are at his funeral) o Implications/hospitalization  Emphasize understanding of child’s egocentricity • Believe abuse/illness is their fault and should be reminded they are not bad people  Explain they did not cause illness and pain/procedures are not punishment  Answer child’s questions at child’s level (simple words they understand) • What is/what is not going to be “fixed” • Concrete/Simple explanations/basic pictures = helpful • Understand time in relation to events (ex: nap time) • Let child handle equipment/models of the equipment  Therapeutic play/medical play  helpful for child to act out their experiences • Enjoy games, good way to elicit their assistance/cooperation during a procedure  Fear of mutilation = common • Bandaid – helpful in restoring body integrity • Common response is to cry/protest during an immunization  Toys: coloring books, puzzles, cutting and pasting, dolls, building blocks, clay and toys that allow the preschooler to workout hospitalization procedures - Use facts and principles related to growth and development in planning teaching interventions o Ex: what task could a 5 y/o w/ diabetes expect to accomplish by him or herself? o Let the child choose injection site, gives them a sense of control - Knowledge of normal growth and developmental milestones are important in the delivery and care of an infant. If there appears to be a discrepancy in the infant’s development, it’ll warrant HCP to further investigate possible cause of delay - School-age (6-12 y/o) o Normal for girls to grow taller/gain more weight at this time o 9/10 years: girls prefer to have friends of the same gender o Hospitalizations/implications  May need more support from parents than the child wishes to admit  Maintaining contact w/ peers & school activities is important  Explanation of procedures is important • Verbal explanations, pictures, books, and handling equipment • Often children will include more detail about their feelings in drawings/express in pictures their feelings • Understand basic functions of the body • Understand if explained in basic terms  Privacy and modesty = important and should be respected during hospitalization • Close curtains during procedures, allow privacy during baths  Participation in care and planning w/ staff  sense of involvement and accomplishment  Toys: board games, card games, hobbies (stamp collecting, puzzles, and video games) - School-age are in Erikson’s stage of industry meaning they like to do and accomplish things. Peers are also becoming important for children of this age - Tanner Stages of Pubertal Development o Girls: breast changes, rapid increase in height and weight, growth of pubic hear, appearance of axillary hair, menstruation, abrupt deceleration of linear growth o Boys: enlargement of testicles, growth of pubic hair, axillary hair, facial hair and body hair, rapid increase in height, changes in larynx and voice, nocturnal emissions, abrupt deceleration of linear growth - Adolescent - Girls’ growth spurt (9.5 y/o) before boys, but boys catch up at 14 and continue to grow - Girls finish growth spurt around 15, boys around 17 - Secondary sex characteristics develop - 15 y/o: adult light thinking = problem solve and use abstract thinking - Family conflicts develop - Erikson’s theory: developing sense of identity (vs role confusion) - Nursing implications o Hospitalization: disrupts school/peer activities, need to maintain contact w/ both o Share room w/ other adolescents o Will view Illness, tx, & procedures that alter their body image as devastating o Teaching: include time w/o parents present, direct questions to the adolescent o 7-14 y/o = Age of assent for medical decisions (parental consent is also needed) o Maintain identity (prolonged hospitalizations): own clothing, posters, and visitors  Teen room/teen night may be helpful  Adolescent – part of decision regarding parents rooming in o Some assessment questions asked w/o parent present o Teaching: focus should be on “here and now”  “how will this affect me today?” - Accidents are a major cause of death in children and adolescents. Teach parents and children developmentally appropriate safety and accident prevention techniques - 8 months  child sits unsupported - 15-18 months  walking independently - 18 months  throws ball overhand - 2 years old  achieves 50% of adult height, speaks 2-3 word sentences o Temper tantrums = normal/average behavior - 4 years old  birth length doubles, uses scissors - 5 years old  ties his or her shoes - 9.5/10 years old  female growth spurt before males - Adolescence: when child forms their identity, rebellion against family is common - Concepts of bodily injury o Infants – after 6 months, they can remember pain o Toddlers – fear intrusive procedures o Preschoolers—fear body mutilation o School-age fear loss of control of their bodies o Adolescence – body image is major concern Pain assessment and management (the fifth vital sign) - Pain in peds usually unrecognized/untreated  complications o Delayed recovery, alterations in sleep patterns, and nutrition o Infant/toddler = unable to verbalize experience of pain may display pain by actions and mannerisms - Nursing assessment o Verbal report by child (3 y/o = able to report location and degree of pain) o Observe:  nonverbal signs of pain (grimacing, irritability, restlessness, difficulty sleeping/feeding)  physiologic responses to pain – usually acute pain (increased heart rate/respiratory rate and blood pressure, diaphoresis, and decreased oxygen levels) o Include parents - Nursing plans/interventions o Use pain rating scale appropriate for the child’s age and developmental level o Documentation – essential to effectively treat child’s pain  CRIES: infants 32-60 weeks  PRS – pain rating scale = all children of any age • FACES and POKER CHIP SCALE – preschool age and older • NUMERIC PAIN SCALE – 9 y/o and older • OUCHER PAIN SCALE – 3-12 y/o w/ culturally specific photographs showing different levels of pain and discomfort • FLACC – for the nonverbal child o Facial expression, Leg Movement, Activity, Crying, & Consolability o Non-pharmacologic interventions  According to child’s age and developmental level  Infants: pacifiers, holding, rocking  Toddlers/preschoolers: distraction (books, music, TV, blowing bubbles)  School-age/adolescents: guided imagery  Other: massage, hot/cold application, and deep breathing exercises o Pharmacologic interventions  Before giving pain meds: verify dose is safe (based on weight)  Monitor vitals after giving opioids  5 y/o – may be taught to use PCA  May DENY pain in fear of receiving IM injection - Child health promotion description o Immunization of children against communicable disease = great accomplishment of modern medicine (decrease in childhood mortality & morbidity rates) o Protection against disease should begin in infancy Communicable diseases of childhood (care is virtually the same for all) - Rubeola (measles) • Highly contagious viral disease  neuro problems or death • Transmission: direct contact w/ droplets of the infected person • Contagious: during prodromal period (fever and URI symptoms)  Photophobia, koplik spots on buccal mucosa  Rash on face, spreads downwards - Paramyxovirus (mumps) • Incubation: 14-21 days • Symptoms: fever, headache, malaise, parotid gland swelling and tenderness  Manifestations: submaxillary/sublingual infection, orchitis, and meningoencephalitis • Transmission: direct contact or droplet spread • Tx: analgesics (pain), antiseptics (fever), and bedrest until swelling subsides - Rubella (German Measles) • Common viral disease, teratogenic effects on fetus (first trimester) • Transmission: droplet and direct contact w/ infected person • Discrete maculopapular rash, disappears in 3 days (starts on face, spreads to entire body) - Pertussis (whooping cough) • Acute infectious respiratory disease (usually infancy) • G (-) bordatella bacillius • Begins w/ URI symptoms • Paroxysmal stage: prolonged coughing/crowing/whooping upon inspiration (4-6 weeks) • Transmission: direct contact/droplet spread or freshly contaminated objects • Vaccine recommended for all (CDC says doses at 2,4,6, and 15-18 months and then again between 4-6 y/o) - Varicella (chicken pox) • Viral disease • Skin lesions: begin on the trunk and spread to the face and proximal extremities  Macule  papule  vesicle  pustule • Transmission: direct contact, droplet spread, and freshly contaminated objects • Communicable: prodromal period  until vesicles have crusted • CDC recommends 2 doses of the varicella vaccine for everyone  First dose: 12-15 months  Second dose: 4-6 y/o - Nursing care • Isolation during period of communicability • Treat fever w/ NONASPIRIN product • Report occurrence to health dept. • Prevent child from scratching skin (cut nail, apply mittens, provide soothing bath)  Diphenhydramine HCL (Benadryl) for itching  Handwashing: care for child/handling secretions or child’s articles • Administer vaccine as per CDC’s recommendations - Children w/ German Measles (Rubella) = serious threat to unborn siblings (TERATOGENIC) - Common childhood problems are encountered by nurses caring for children in the community/hospital setting. Age influences severity & management. Vaccines - MMR Vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) • 12-15 mos and repeated at 4-6 y/o or by 11-12 y/o • Contraindication: hx of anaphylactic reaction to neomycin or eggs, altered immunodeficiency, and pregnant women - Pertinent history should be obtained before administering certain immunizations b/c reactions to previous immunizations or current health conditions may contraindicate current immunizations • MMR (Anaphylactic reaction to eggs or neomycin) • DTAP (reactions, seizures, neuro symptoms after previous vaccine or systematic allergic reactions) - DTap Vaccine (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) • At 2 months, begin three doses (at 2 month intervals), boosters given at 15-18 mos and 4-6 y/o • Contraindications: encephalopathy within 7 days of previous DTap, HX of seizures, neuro symptoms after vaccine, and systemic allergic reactions - Polio vaccine (inactive polio vaccine) • Recommended for all 18 y/o, but at 2 mos then again at 4, boosters at 6-18 mos and 4-6 y/o • Contraindication: hx of anaphylactic reaction to neomycin or streptomycin - Hib (Haemophilus influenza type B) • Protects against bacteria that cause epiglottitis, bacterial meningitis, septic arthritis) • As early as 2 mos • No contraindications - Hep B • Newborns before hospital discharge • All children up to 18 y/o should be vaccinated • Contraindications: anaphylactic reactions to common baker’s yeast - Varicella (Chickenpox) • 12-18 mos (must be at least 12 mos) • School entry requirement in most states • Give MMR and varicella on same day or 30 days apart - TB Skin testing • Mantoux or Tine test • Screening can be initiated at 12 mos • Positive reaction = exposure to M. tuberculosis - Subq injection, rather than intradermal injection, invalidates Mantoux test - The common cold is not a contraindication for immunization - Teaching after immunizations • Normal side effects of DTaP: irritability, fever of 102 F, redness and soreness at site for 2-3 days • Call HCP if seizures, high fever, or high-pitched crying occurs • Warm washcloth at thigh injection site and “bicycling” legs w/ each diaper change decreases soreness • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) admin orally q 4-6h (10-15mg/kg) - Pertussis fatalities continue to occur in nonimmunized infants in the US Pediatric Nutritional Assessment (profile of child and family’s eating habits) - Iron deficiency: most common in children 12-26 months, adolescent females, and females in childbearing years • Signs of deficiency:  Anemia, pale conjunctiva, pale skin color, atrophy of papillae on tongue, brittle, ridged, spoon-shaped nails, thyroid edema  Food sources: iron-fortified formula, infant high-protein cereal, infant rice cereal, liver, beef, pork, eggs, and green veggies. - Vitamin D: recommended 400 IU/Day • If mother is not taking enough, infant is recommended to receive oral dose of 400IU/day - Preschool and school-age children most lack: • Vitamin A, C, B6, and B12  Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – signs of deficiency: • Redness, fissuring of eyelid corners, burning, itching, tearing, eyes (photophobia), magenta-colored tongue, glossitis, seborrheic dermatitis, delayed wound healing • Food sources: prepared infant formula, liver, cow’s milk, cheddar cheese, some green leafy vegetables, and enriched cereals  Vitamin A (retinol) – signs of deficiency: • Dry, rough skin, dull cornea, soft cornea, bitot spots, night blindness, defective tooth enamel, retarted growth, impaired bone formation, decreased thyroxine formation • Food sources: liver, sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, peaches, and apricots  Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) – signs of deficiency • Scurvy, receding gums that are spongy and prone to bleeding, dry, rough skin, petechiae, decreased wound healing, increased susceptibility to infection, irritability, anorexia, apprehension • Food sources: strawberries, oranges/orange juice, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach  Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) – signs of deficiency • Scaly dermatitis, weight loss, anemia, irritability, convulsions, and peripheral neuritis • Food sources: meat (esp liver), cereals (wheat and corn), years, soybeans, peanuts, tuna, chicken, and bananas) - Teach proper cooking and storage methods to preserve potency (cook veggies in small amounts of liquid, store milk in opaque container) - Nursing plans and interventions • Determine dietary history  24 hr recall: family recall all food/liquid intake during the past 24 hours  Food diary: 3-day record (2 weekdays and 1 weekend day) of all food/liquid intake and the amount of each  Food frequency record: questionnaire – ask family to record info about number of times/day or month child consumes items from the four food groups • Perform clinical exam  Assess skin, hair, teeth, lips, tongue and yes  Measure: height, weight, BMI, head circumference, proportion, skinfold thickness, and arm circumference • Height and weight – reflect past nutrition • Weight, skinfold thickness, and arm circumference reflect present nutritional status (protein and fat reserves) • Skinfold thickness = body’s fat content (half of fat = directly beneath skin)  Obtain biochemical analysis • Plasma, blood cells, urine, or tissues from liver, bone, hair, fingernails = can determine nutritional status • Labs: Hgb, Hct, albumin, creatinine, and nitrogen = can determine nutritional status • Implement appropriate nursing interventions – teaching to correct nutritional deficits - Diarrhea • Increased number or decreased consistency of stools • Can be serious or fatal symptom (especially in infancy) • Causes (include, but not limited to)  Infections (bacterial, viral, parasitic)  Malabsorption problems  Inflammatory diseases  Dietary factors • Conditions assoc. w/ diarrhea  Dehydration  Metabolic acidosis  Shock • Nursing assessment  Usually occurs in infants  Hx of exposure to pathogens, contaminated food, dietary changes  Signs of dehydration • Poor skin turgor/tenting of skin • Absence of tears – dry and sticky mucus membranes • Weight loss 5-15% • Depressed fontanel • Decreased urinary output, increased specific gravity • Acidotic state  Lab signs of acidosis • Loss of bicarbonate (serum pH 7.35) • Loss of sodium and potassium through stools • Elevated hematocrit and BUN  Signs of shock • Decreased BP, rapid/weak pulse • Skin = mottled to gray color, cool/clammy to touch • Because the infant’s hands may be acrocyanotic, the best place to check cap refill is on the infant’s sternum • Delayed cap refill (4 seconds) • Changes in mental state • Nursing plans/interventions  Assess hydration status and vitals frequently, monitor I&O  Do NOT take rectal temperature  Rehydrate as prescribed, calculate IV hydration to include maintenance and replacement fluids  Collect specimens  diagnose cause  Check stools for PH, glucose, and blood  Administer AB as prescribed  Check urine for specific gravity  Institute careful isolation precautions – WASH HANDS  Teach home care of child w/ diarrhea • Oral rehydration solution (pedialyte or lytren) • May need lactose-free diet (temporarily) • SHOULD NOT RECEIVE antidiarrheals (Imodium) • DO NOT give grape, orange, apple juice, cola or ginger ale (high osmolality) - Important to document method used to take temperature. Ensure tympanic probe fits properly in the ear canal. Ensure client does not have otitis media - Antibiotics are not recommended for diarrhea – only prescribed if caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infection - Add potassium to IV fluids only when client has adequate urine ouput - Standard IV fluids used to treat pediatric dehydration: isotonic – LR, or NS. (20ml/kg) Burns - Tissue injuries caused by heat, electricity, chemicals or radiation - Major cause of accidental death in children 15 (second to MV accidents) - 75% are preventable - Children 2 have a higher mortality rate • Greater central body surface area – greatest part of body surface area is in the head and trunk = more serious effects from burns to trunk and head • Greater fluid volume (proportionate to body size) • Less effective cardio responses to fluid volume shifts - Partial thickness burn – major if more than 25% of body surface - Full thickness burn – major if more than 10% body surface - Rule of nines can’t be used to assess the percentage of burn - Lund-browder chart – takes into account the changing proportions of the child (THIS IS WHAT IS USED) - Fluid needs should be calculated from the time of the burn • Parkland formula – commonly used guideline for calculating fluid replacement and maintenance (based on child’s body surface area and should include vol. for losses and maintenance) • Adequacy of fluid replacement is determined by evaluating urine output - Urine output for infants and children should be 1-2 ml/kg/hr Child Abuse - Intentional or nonintentional physical and mental injury, sexual abuse, and emotional and physical neglect of a child under the age of 18 years old who is under the care of an adult. - Children 1 – greatest risk of being abuse - Child neglect = most common form of abuse - Risk factors - 4 y/o - Children of special needs - Abused individuals at risk of becoming perpetrator of abuse - Nursing assessment • Injuries not congruent w/ developmental age or skill • Injuries not correlated w/ stated cause  Unusual places, different stages of healing, caused by belts, cords, cigarettes, iron, being shaken, bald patches, fractures at different healing stages • Delay in seeking medical care • FTT, unattended to physical problems, torn, stained, bloody undergarmends • Lacerations of genitalia • Child w/ STD • Older child bedwetting or soiling • Child = frightened and withdrawn - Plans/interventions • Nurses = legally required to report all cases of suspected child abuse • Take color photographs, document factual, objective statements • Establish trust and care for child’s physical problems – primary and immediate needs of these children • Recognize own feelings of anger toward the parents - Abused children have difficulty establishing trust. Select only one nurse to care for an abused child because the child will be less anxious w/ a consistent caregiver. Poisonings - Ingesting, inhaling, or absorbing a toxic substance - Poison (particularly ingestion) = a common cause of childhood injury and illness - 6yr, peak at 2 yr • Exploratory behavior, curiosity and oral motor activity of early childhood place the child at risk for poisonings - 90% occur at home - Nursing assessment • Child fond near source of poison • GI disturbances )nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting) • Burns of mouth, pharynx • Respiratory distress • Seizures, changes in LOV • Cyanosis, shock - Use of syrup of ipecac is no longer recommended by the AAP. Teach parents that it is NOT recommended to induce vomiting in any way because it may cause more damage. - Plans/interventions • ID poisonous agent quickly • Asses respiratory, cardiac, and neuro status • Instruct parent to bring any emesis, stool, etc • Gastric lavage, activated charcoal, N-acetylcysteine or naloxone HCL • Teach home safety  Poison proof/childproof – ID locations of poisons  Put locks on cabinets  Use safety containers  Discard unused meds • Make sure child is always under adult supervisipon • Have local poison control # next to phone • Examine environment from child’s POV, be aware of changes in the child’s environment - Common household products that are poisonous to children if ingested: perfume and aftershave, sunburn relief products, alcohol, cigarettes or any type of tobacco product, and mouthwash Lead poisoning - There is no established “safe” level of lead for children – every system of the bod can be affected by lead exposure - Lead exposure and elevated levels have been linked to decreased IQ’s - 6 yr and younger = most vulnerable to the effects of lead b/c children tend to put things into their mouths - Major cause of lead poisoning is lead-based paint - Enters body thru ingestion, inhalation, or placental transfer. • Ingestion by hand to mouth or contaminated hands, fingers, toys, or pacifiers = most common route - Renal, neuro, and heme systems are the most seriously affected by lead - BLL = currently used for screening and dx - Erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) = good indicator of early toxic effects of lead, help est. the total potential body burden of lead in a child - Nursing assessment • Screen for lead poisoning/Universal screening  All children should have BLL at 1 and 2 yr  Any child between 3-6 yr that has not been screened should also be tested • Physical assessment  General signs: anemia, acute cramping, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, anorexia, headache, lethargy, impaired growth  CNS signs (early): hyperactivity, aggression, impulsiveness, decreased interest in play, irritability, short attention span  CNS signs (late): mental retardation, paralysis, blindness, convulsions, coma, death - Plans/interventions • ID source • Administer prescribed chelating agents to reduce high BLL levels  Children w/ peanut allergies should not be given chelating agents such as dimercaprol (BAL), d-penicillamine, or calcium disodium EDTA • IM/IV administration  Calcium disodium EDTA (IM)  Dimercaprol in conjunction w/ calcium disodium EDTA to help efficacy of tx • Considerations for admin  Rotate injection sites (chelating agents given IM)  Reassure child that injections are tx, not punishment  Administer the local anesthetic procaine w/ IM injection of calcium disodium EDTA to reduce discomfort  Apply EMLA cream over puncture site 2.5 hr before injection to reduce discomfort  Avoid giving iron during chelation – possible interactive effects  Cleansing enemas or cathartic for acute lead ingestion  Do not vaccum hard-surfaced floors or windowsills or window wells in homes built before 1960 (spreads dust)  Wash and dry child’s hands and face – toys and pacifiers frequently - More lead is absorbed on an empty stomach. Hot water can contain higher levels of lead b/c it dissolves lead more quickly than cold water, so use only cold water for consumption (drinking, cooking, and esp for making infant formula) Respiratory disorders Important signs in children - Cardinal signs of respiratory distress • Restlessness, increased respiratory rate, increased pulse rate, diaphoresis - Other signs of respiratory distress • Flaring nostrils, retractions, grunting, adventitious breath sounds (or absent breath sounds), use of accessory muscles, head bobbing, alterations in blood gases – decreased PO2, elevated PCO2, cyanosis and pallor, alterations in mental status - Symptoms of hypoxia • Early: restlessness, anxiety, tachycardia/tachypnea • Late: bradycardia, extreme restlessness, severe dyspnea • Pediatrics: difficulty feeding, inspiratory stridor, nares, flaring, grunting w/ expirations, sternal retractions - Nursing implications • Pediatric client often goes into respiratory failure before cardiac failure • KNOW THE SIGNS OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS Asthma - Inflammatory reactive airway disease that is commonly chronic • Airways  edematous, congested w/ mucus • Smooth muscles of bronchi and bronchioles construct • Air trapping in the alveoli - Nursing assessment • Hx of asthma in the family, allergies, or eczema • Home environment w/ pets/other allergents • Tight (nonproductive) cough – usually/worsens at night • Breath sounds: coarse, expiratory wheezing, rales, crackles • Chest diameter enlarges (late s/s) • Increased # of school days missed in past 6 months • SIGNS OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS - Plans/interventions • Monitor carefully for increasing respiratory distress • Admin: rapid acting bronchodilators and steroids for acute attacks • Maintain hydration (oral IV fluids) • Monitor blood gas values (respiratory acidosis), pulse ox as prescribed • Oxygen/nebulizer therapy as prescribed • Monitor beta-adrenergic agonists and anti-inflammatory corticosteroids – commonly used medications • Home care program (factors, triggers, allergens, use, monitoring peak flow, breathing exercises, monitoring drug (actions, doses, side effects), managing acute episodes) - Epinephrine – rapid acting bronchodilator, drug of choice for acute asthma attack • Adverse reactions: tachycardia, hypertensions, tremors, nausea • Implications: give subq, IV via nebulizer – may be repeated after 20 minutes - Calculating pediatric dosage - Change the weight from lb to kg (1kg=2.2lbs) Cystic Fibrosis - An autosomal-recessive disease that is causes dysfunction of the exocrine glands • Lung insufficiency (most critical problem), pancreatic insufficiency, increased loss of sodium and chloride in sweat • Nursing assessment  Most often found in white people  Meconium ileus at birth (10%-20%)  Recurrent respiratory infection, pulmonary congestion  Steatorrhea (excessive fat, greasy stools), foul smelling, bulky stools  Delayed growth, poor weight gain, salty skin when kissed (excessive sweating)  End stages: cyanosis, nail-bed clubbing, congestive heart failure • Plans/interventions  Monitor respiratory status  Administer AB, pancreatic enzymes (cotazym-S, Pancrease), fat soluble vitamins (A,D,E, and K), oxygen & nebulizer treatments • Oxygen hood: infants • Nasal prongs: low-moderate concentrations of o2, up to 4-6L • Tents: provide mist and oxygen. Monitor child’s temperature and keep edges tucked in, child dry • Measurements of oxygen o Pulse ox = oxygen saturation (SAO2) – attached to finger or toe, nurse should be aware of alarm parameters o Blood gas evaluation monitored also  NORMAL PO2 = 80-100mmHg  NORMAL PCO2 = 35-45 mmHg  Evaluate effectiveness of respiratory treatments  Teach dietary recommendations: high in calories, high protein, moderate-high fat, moderate-low carbs  Age-appropriate activities, refer family for genetic counseling - A child needs 150% of the usual calorie intake for normal growth and development - Cystic fibrosis is now screened w/ tests performed after birth. The dx is made in the child’s first month of life before signs and symptoms occur. Epiglottitis (usually H. influenzae) - MEDICAL EMERGENCY: Severe, life-threatening infection of the epiglottis - Progresses rapidly, causing acute airway obstruction - nursing assessment • sudden onset • restlessness, high fever, sore throat, dysphagia • drooling, muffled voice • tripod position – child assuming upright, sitting position w/ chin out and tongue protruding - plans/interventions encourage prevention w/ HiB vaccine, maintain child in tripod position - prepare for intubation or trach, administer IV AB - prepare for ICU, restrain to prevent extubation - employ measures to decrease agitation and crying Bronchiolitis - viral infection of the bronchioles that is characterized by thick secretions • usually caused by RSV, found to be readily transmitted by close contact w/ hospital personnel, families, and other children • primarily in young infants - assessment • hx of URI, irritable, distressed infant • paroxysmal coughing, poor eating, nasal congestion and flaring • prolonged expiratory phase of respiration • wheezing, rales can be auscultated • deteriorating condition  shallow, rapid respirations - plans/interventions • isolate child (contact if RSV), assign nurse to client w/ RSV who have no other client • clear airway using bulb syringe, provide care in mist tent (oxygen) maintain hydration, evaluate response to respiratory tx administer palivizumab  passive immunity against RSH in high risk children (2 yr w/ hx of prematurity, lung disease, or CHD) - in planning and providing nursing care, a patent airway is always the priority regardless of age otitis media - inflammatory disorder of the middle ear (suppurative or serous) - anatomic structure of the ear predisposes young child to ear infections - risk for conductive hearing loss if untreated or incompletely treated - assessment • fever, pain, infant may pull at ear, enlarged lymph nodes, discharge from ear (if drum ruptured) • URI symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea - Plans/interventions • AB, reduce body temperature (tepid baths, acetaminophen) • Position child on affected side • Provide comfort measures (warm compress on affected ear) • Teach home care – finish all AB, encourage follow-up, monitor for hearing loss, teach preventive care (avoid secondhand smoke, discourage bottle feeding when child = supine) • Tympanostomy tubes placement - Respiratory disorders are the primary reason most children and their families seek medical care. Therefore these disorders are frequently tested on the NCLEX-RN. Knowing the normal parameters of respiratory rates and the key signs of respiratory distress in children is essential Tonsillitis - Inflammation of the tonsils (viral or bacterial)  may be streptococcus species • If strep-related  tx = VERY IMPORTANT, risk for developing AGN or rheumatic heart disease - Assessment • Sore throat, difficulty swallowing 48 hrs • Fever, enlarged tonsils (may have purulent discharge on tonsils) • Breathing = may be obstructed  tonsils touching, called kissing tonsils • Throat culture to determine cause (bacteria or virus) - Plans/interventions • Collect throat culture – if prescribed • Instruct parents in home care (warm saline gargles, ice chips, antibiotics, fever – acetaminophen) • Tonsillectomy?  preop teaching/assessment, monitor for signs of post op bleeding (Frequent swallowing, vomiting fresh blood, clearing throat)  Encourage soft foods, oral fluids (avoid red fluids  mimics signs of bleeding)  DO NOT USE STRAW  Teach highest risk of hemorrhage – first 24 hrs and 5-10 days after surgery - Teach parents why it is important to administer pain meds as prescribed (usually cough suppressant for tonsillectomy – coughing may loosen sutures, create clots, active bleeding) - Removal of ingested sharp object is a medical emergency Cardiovascular Disorders (IVC/SVC  RA RV  PA  LUNGS  PV  LA  LV  AV  BODY!) Congenital Heart Disorders - Heart anomalies that develop in utero and manifest at birth or shortly after - Categories • Acyanotic: increased fatigue, murmur, increased risk of endocarditis, CHD, growth retardation  Left-to-right shunts or increased pulmonary blood flow • ASD • VSD • PDA  Obstructive pulmonary blood flow defects • Coarctation/stenosis of the aorta • Cyanotic: squatting, cyanosis, clubbing, and syncope  Right-to-left shunts or decreased pulmonary blood flow • Tetralogy of fallot  Mixed pulmonary blood flow • TGA,TA Acyanotic heart defects VSD – ventricular septal defect (increased pulmonary blood flow) - Hole between both ventricles - Oxygenated blood from the left ventricle is shunted to the right ventricle and recirculated to the lungs - Small defects may close spontaneous - Large defects cause Eisenmenger syndrome or CHF and require surgical closures ASD – atrial septal defect (increased pulmonary blood flow) - Hole between the atria - Oxygenated blood from left atrium shunted to right atrium and lungs - Most defects don’t compromise children seriously - Surgical closure is recommended before school age – can lead to significant problems such as CHF, atrial dysrhythmias later in life if not corrected PDA - Patent Ductus Arteriosus (increased pulmonary blood flow) - Abnormal opening between the aorta and the pulmonary artery - Usually closes within 72 hours after birth - Increased blood flow to lungs = pulmonary hypertension - May require medical intervention w/ indomethacin (Indocin) admin or surgical closure) COA - Coarctation of the Aorta (obstruction of blood flow from the ventricles) - There is an obstructive narrowing of the aorta - Most common sites = aortic valve and aorta near ductus arteriosus - Common finding = HTN in upper extremities and decreased/absent pulses in lower extremities - May require surgical correction AS - Aortic Stenosis (Obstruction of Blood flow from ventricles) - Obstructive narrowing immediately before, at, or after the aortic valve (most commonly valvular) - Oxygenated blood flow from left ventricle into systemic circulation = diminished - Symptoms caused by low cardiac output - May require surgical correction The Traditional Three T’s of Cyanotic Heart Disease - Polycythemia (blood cancer) is a common concern in children w/ cyanotic defects TOF - Tetrology of Fallot (decreased pulmonary blood flow) - Combination of four defects - 1. VSD - 2. Overriding aorta (over and above VSD) - 3. PS – pulmonary stenosis, obstructs right ventricular outflow - 4. Right ventricular hypertrophy – severity of pulmonary stenosis relates to hypertrophy and extent of shunting TA – truncus Arteriosus (mixed blood flow) - Pulmonary artery and aorta do not separate - one artery (truncus) rather than two arteries (aorta and pulmonary artery) arises from BOTH ventricles - One main vessel receives blood from the left and right ventricles together - Blood mixes in right and left ventricles through a large VSD  cyanosis - Increased pulmonary resistance  increased cyanosis - Congenital defect needs surgical correction; only presence of the large VSD allows for survival at birth TGA – transposition of the great vessels (mixed blood flow) - The great vessels are reversed – pulmonary artery leaves the left ventricle, the aorta exits from the right ventricle - Pulmonary circulation arises from the left ventricle and the systemic circulation arises from the right ventricle - This is incompatible w/ life unless coexisting VSD, ASD, and/or PDA present - The diagnosis is a medical emergency. The child is given prostaglandin E (PGE) to keep the ductus open *basic differences between cyanotic and Acyanotic defects* - Acyanotic: has abnormal circulation – however, ALL blood entering the systemic circulation is oxygenated - Cyanotic: has abnormal circulation w/ UN-oxygenated blood entering the systemic circulation Care of the child w/ CHD (congenital heart disease) - Manifestations of CHD • Murmur (present, absent, thrill or rub) • Cyanosis, clubbing of digits (usually after age 2) • Poor feeding, poor weight gain (FTT) • Frequent regurgitation • Frequent resp. infections • Activity intolerance, fatigue - Assess: • Heart rate, rhythm, and heart sounds • Resp. status/difficulty • Pulses (quality and symmetry) • Blood pressure (upper and lower) • Feeding difficulties, tired easily - The heart rate of a child increases w/ crying or fever - Infants may require tube feeding to conserve energy. Infants being tube-fed need to continue to satisfy their sucking needs - Plans/interventions • Provide care for the child w/ cardio dysfunction  Maintain hydration (polycythemia increases risk for thrombus formation)  Maintain neutral thermal environment  Monitor for fever  Plan frequent rest periods, organize activities to disturb child only as indicated  Admin. Digoxin and diuretics as prescribed  Monitor for signs of deteriorating condition or CHF  Teach family the need for prophylactic AB before any dental or invasive procedures due to risk for endocarditis • Assist w/ diagnostic tests and support family during DX  ECG, ECHO • Prep family and child for cardio cath (when surgery is probably or as an intervention for certain procedures)  Risks of catheterization are similar to those cardiac surgery • Arrhythmias • Bleeding • Perforation • Phlebitis • Arterial obstruction at the entry site  Child requires reassurance and close monitoring after catheterization • Vital signs • Pulses • Incision site • Cardiac rhythm  Prep family and child for surgical intervention if necessary  Prepare child as appropriate for age • Show ICU. • Explain chest tubes, IV lines, monitors, dressings and ventilator • Show family/child waiting area, provide emotional support • Use a doll/drawing for explanations • Include/incorporate family as much as possible in client teachings Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – more assoc. w/ Acyanotic defects (VSD, ASD, PDA, COA, AS) - Condition in which the heart is unable to effectively pump the vol. of blood presented to it - CHF is a common complication of CHD. It reflects the increased workload of the heart caused by shunts or obstructions. The two objectives in treating CHF are to reduce the workload of the heart and increase cardiac output - Nursing assessment • Tachypnea, tachycardia – SOB • Difficulty breathing, cyanosis • Grunting, wheezing, pulmonary congestion • Edema (face, eyes of infants) weight gain • Diaphoresis (sweating – esp. head) • Hepatomegaly - Plans/interventions • Monitor vitals frequently + report signs of increasing distress • Asses respiratory functioning frequently • Elevate HOB or use infant seat • Admin O2 therapy, digoxin, diuretics • Weigh frequently, report unusual weight gains • Maintain strict I/O, weigh diaper (1g=1mL) • Provide low-sodium diet or formula • Gavage feed infants if unable to get adequate nutrition by mouth - When frequent weights are required, weigh client on the same scale at the same time of day so that accurate comparisons can be made Managing Digoxin - Before admin: nurse must take apical pulse for 1 min to assess for bradycardia. Hold if pulse is normal heart rate for child’s age - Therapeutic blood levels of digoxin are 0.8-2.0 mL - Families should be taught safe home admin • Admin on regular basis – DO NOT SKIP or make up for missed doses • Give 1hr before meals are 2hrs after meals. DO NOT MIX W/ FORMULA OR FOOD - Take a child’s pulse before admin and know when to call the HCP - Keep in safe place (locked cabinet) - Nurse must be acutely aware of signs of toxicity. A small child/infant CAN’T describe feeling bad or nauseous - Vomiting is a common early sign of toxicity – often overlooked b/c infants commonly spit up - Other GI symptoms include anorexia, diarrhea, and abd pain - Neurologic signs – fatigue, muscle weakness, and drowsiness - Hypokalemia can increase digoxin toxicity Rheumatic Fever (inflammatory disease) - Most common cause of acquired heart disease in children – usually affects the aortic and mitral valves of the heart - Assoc. w/ antecedent beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection - Collagen disease that injures the heart, blood vessels, joints, and subq tissue - Nursing assessment • Chest pain, SOB (carditis), tachycardia – even during sleep • Migratory large-joint pain, chorea (irregular involuntary movements) • Rash (erythema marginatum), subq nodules over bony prominences • Fever • Labs – elevated ESR, ASO (antistreptolysin O titer) - Plans/intervention • Monitor vitals, assess for increasing signs of cardiac distress • Encourage bed rest (as needed during febrile illness) • Assist w/ ambulation, reassure that chorea is temporary • Admin penicillin/erythromycin and aspiring for anti-inflammatory/anticoagulation  Penicillin G IM: prophylaxis for recurrence of rheumatic fever • Adverse reactions: allergic reactions ranging from rashes to anaphylactic shock and death • Nursing implications: released VERY slowly, over several weeks = sustained levels of concentration – have emergency equipment available wherever meds are administered. Always determine existence of allergies to PCN and cephalosporins, check chart & record and inquire of client and family • Teach home care  Necessity for prophylactics (AB – PO/IM), Penicillin G (IM each month)  Inform dentist and other HCP of dx to evaluate necessity for prophylactic AB Kawasaki Disease (Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome) - Acute systemic vasculitis that can cause damage to vessels, including the coronary arteries that supply blood flow to the heart - Also affects the mucus membrane lining of the mouth, nose, and throat as well as the lymph nodes and skin - Causes permanent damage to the main arteries of the heart  aneurysm of the coronary artery • Cause = unknown • Usually seen in children 5yrs • Three phases – acute, subacute, convalescent • Early treatment = essential to decrease chances of permanent heart damage - Assessment (data collection) - Acute phase • High fever 39 C or 102.2 F (or higher) for 5 days • Conjunctival redness w/o discharge, cracked dried lips, strawberry tongue • Swollen lymph nodes of neck • Rash on trunk/genital area, red swollen hands and feet - Subacute phase • Peeling of hands and feet • Cardio manifestations may be seen • Skeletal joint pain • GI manifestations: abd pain, vomiting, diarrhea - Convalescent (last) phase • Starts when all signs are gone, ends when labs are normal - Extreme irritability is seen in the child during the disease process - Plans/interventions • IVIG and aspirin (salicylate therapy) to treat disease process, not treat the fecer • Treat high fevers w/ acetaminophen • Monitor cardiac status via I/O (clear liquids and soft foods) and daily weights • Minimize skin discomfort w/ lotion and cool compresses • Initiate meticulous mouth care • Support family (comforting child during periods of irritability) • Discharge teaching and home referral Neuromuscular disorders Down Syndrome (NURSING GOAL: help child reach optimal level of functioning) - Most common chromosomal abnormality in children • Various physical characteristics and cognitive impairment  Small head, flat-wide nasal bridge  Inner epicanthal eye fold  Upward, outward slant of the eyes  Brushfield spots on the iris (white spots)  Small, irregularly shaped ears; low-set  Small mouth and protruding tongue  Short neck, short-stubby hands w/ single crease in palm (simian crease)  Short arms and legs (compared to body) short in stature  Hypotonic flexibility, atlantoaxial instability  Short, stubby toes w/ enlarges space between big toe and other toes  Hyper extensible and lax joint (hypotonia) • Occurs when cell division is abnormal – extra genetic material from chromosome 21 - Common assoc. problems • Cardiac defects, respiratory infections • Feeding difficulties, delayed developmental skills (mental retardation, IQ 20-70) • Skeletal defects, altered immune function • Endocrine dysfunctions, hypothyroidism, diabetic muscular infarction (DMI) - Plans/interventions • Assist and support parents during the dx process and management of problems • Assess/monitor growth and development • Teach use of bulb syringe, teach signs of respiratory infection • Assist family w/ feeding problems (feed to back and side of mouth) • Monitor for signs of cardiac difficulty or respiratory infection • Refer to early intervention program and specialists (nutrition, speech, PT, and OT) Cerebral Palsy - Non-progressive injury to the motor centers of the brain  neuromuscular problems of spasticity or dyskinesia (involuntary movements) - Healthy infant during uterine development, the birthing process, or exposure to an infection (meningitis) during early years of development - It is irreversible, extent of damage depends on location of trauma to the brain - Symptoms worsen or improve over time - Assoc w/ cognitive impairment and seizures - Causes: • Anoxic injury before, during, or after birth • Maternal infections • Kernicterus • LBW (major risk factor) - Nursing assessment • Persistent neonatal reflexes after 6 months (moro, tonic neck) • Delayed developmental problems • Apparent early preference for one hand, poor suck, tongue thrust • Spasticity (difficulty w/ diapering) • Scissoring of legs (extended and crossed over each other/feet plantar flexed) • Involuntary movements, seizures - Plans/interventions • ID CP via follow-up of high risk infants (premature, breech, cardiac/respiratory distress during birth, low apgar score, product of multiple pregnancies, severe jaundiced • Refer to community-based agencies, coordinate w/ PT, OT, ST, nutritionist, OS, Neuro • Support family thru grief process at dx and thru child’s life. Care is very challenging • Anticonvulsants – phenytoin (Dilantin), diazepam (Valium) - Feed infant or child w/ CP using nursing interventions aimed at preventing aspiration. Position child upright and support lower jaw. ADHD – attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - Neurodevelopmental disorders: recent studies indicate they me be linked to genetics - Children up to 16 y/o are identified as having ADD if they exhibit a minimum of SIX inattention symptoms Spina Bifida - Malformation of the vertebrae and spinal cord  varying degrees of disability and deformity depending on the location of the malformation (neural tube defect) - Types • Spina bifida occulta: defect of vertebrae only. NO SAC, usually benign  Bladder and bowel problems may occur • w/ meningocele and myelomeningocele: A SAC is present usually along spine • meningocele: contains ONLY MENINGES AND SPINAL FLUID  less neurologic involvement than myelomeningocele • myelomeningocele: SAC containing spinal fluid, meninges, and nerves  MORE SEVERE than meningocele - Prevention: women in childbearing years before and during pregnancy should consume a minimum of 400 mcg of folic acid daily (supplements or folic-enriched foods) • Egg yolks, dark green veggies, citrus fruits, juices, or beans - Every child w/ hx of spina bifida should be screened for latex allergies - Nursing assessment • Occulta: dimple w/ or w/o hair tuft at base of spine • Myelomeningocele: sac is usually lumbar or lumbosacral • Flaccid paralysis and limited or no feeling below the defect • HC w/ variance w/ norms on growth grids • Associated problems  Hydrocephalus (90% of myelomeningocele)  Neurogenic bladder, poor anal sphincter tone  Congenital dislocated hips, club feet  Skin problems (due to anesthesia below defect)  Scoliosis - Plans/interventions • Preoperative: place infant in prone position  Keep sac free of stool and urine  Cover sac w/ moist sterile dressing  Elevate FOB, position child on his/her abdomen W/ legs abducted  Measure HC at least q8hrs, check fontanel  Assess neuro function, monitor for signs of infection  Empty bladder using Crede method, or catheterize if needed  Promote parent-infant bonding • Postoperative phase: place infant in prone position  Make same assessments as pre-op  Assess incision for drainage and infection  Assess neuro function • Long-term care  Teach catheterization program when child is young (help older w/ self)  Administer: propantheline (Pro-banthine) or bethanechol (Urecholine) • To improve continence  Develop bowel program • High fiber diet, increased (regular fluids) • Suppositories as needed  Assess skin condition frequently  Assist w/ ROM, ambulation, and bracing (as tolerated)  Coordinate w/ neuro, orthopedist, urologist, PT, and nutritionist • Support independent functioning of child • Assist family to make realistic developmental expectations of the child Hydrocephalus - Condition characterized by abnormal accumulation of CSF within ventricles of the brain that does not drain properly from the cranium • Usually caused by obstruction in the flow of CSF between ventricles • Enlargement of the ventricles  pressure on the brain tissue • Often assoc. w/ spina bifida, can be a complication of meningitis - Infants w/ hydrocephalus have enlarged HC as a result of widening fontanels that compensate for accumulating CSF and help relieve pressure of the developing brain - Signs if increase ICP  opposite of shock • Shock: increased pulse, decreased BP • Increased ICP: decreased pulse, increased BP - Nursing assessment • Toddlers and older children  classic signs of increased ICP  Change in LOC, irritability, vomiting  Headache on awakening, motor dysfunction  Unequal pupil response, seizures  Decline in academics, change in personality • Infants and Increased ICP  Irritability, lethargy, increasing HC  Bulging fontanels, widening suture lines  “sunset” eyes, high-pitched cry  Feeding difficulties, decreased muscle tone/strength - Baseline data on the child’s usual behavior and level of development = essential so changes assoc. w/ increased ICP can be detected early - Plans/interventions • Prep infant/family for dx procedures • Monitor for signs of increased ICP • Maintain seizure precautions, elevate HOB • Prep parents for surgery (ventricular shunt placement)  drain excess fluid off brain • Post-op care  Assess for signs of shunt malfunction Infant • Change in size, signs of bulging, tenseness in fontanels and separation of suture lines • Irritability, lethargy, or seizure activity • Altered vital signs and feeding behavior Older child • Change in LOC, complaint of headache • Changes in customary behavior (sleep, developmental capabilities)  Assess for signs of infection (meningitis) • Increased fever 38.6 C or 100.5 F • Shunt tract = reddened, tender, and swollen – drainage may be present • Decreased feeding, increased vomiting • Stiff neck and headache  Monitor I/O closely  Assess surgical site (head and abd) • Home care program  Teach to watch signs of increased ICP and infection  Child will eventually outgrow shun and show difficulty  Child will need shunt revision  Anticipatory guidance for potential problems for growth and development Seizures - Uncontrolled electrical discharges of the neurons in the brain • More common in children under the age of 2 years • Can be assoc. w/ immaturity of the CNS – fever, infection, neoplasms cerebral anoxia, and metabolic disorders - Categorized as generalized or partial • Generalized:  Tonic-clonic (Grand-mal): consciousness is lost (1) Tonic phase: generalized stiffness of entire body (2) Clonic phase: spasm followed by relaxation  absence (petit-mal): momentary LOC, posture is maintained, minor face/eye/hand movements  myoclonic: sudden, brief contractures of a muscle or group of muscles, no postictal state – may be symmetrical or include LOC • partial: arise from a specific area in the brain and cause limited symptoms  ex: focal and psychomotor seizures - nursing assessment • Tonic-clonic(grand mal)  Aura (warning sign of impending seizure)  LOC  Tonic phase  generalized stiffness of entire body  Apnea, cyanosis  Clonic phase: spasms  relaxation  Pupils dilated, nonreactive to light  Incontinence  Post seizure: disoriented, sleepy • Absence seizure (petit mal)  Onset between 4-12y/o  Last 5-10 secs  Child appears to be inattentive, daydreaming  Poor performance in school - Medication noncompliance is the most common cause of increased seizure activity - Plans/interventions • Maintain airway during seizure  client to side to aid ventilation • Do not restrain client, protect client from injury and support neck (avoid flexion) • Document seizures, noting all data in assessment • Maintain seizure precautions  Reduce environmental stimuli as much as possible  Pad side rails/crib rails  Have suction equipment and oxygen quickly accessible, set up at the bedside  Tape oral airway to the HOB - DO NOT USE TONGUE BLADE (PADDED OR NOT) – during seizure activity – can cause traumatic damage to the oral cavity • Support during dx tests (EEG, CT • Support during workup for infections (ex: meningitis) • Administer anticonvulsant meds as prescribed  Tonic-clonic phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and fosphenytoin  Absence ethosuximide, valproic acid • Monitor therapeutic drug levels • Teach family about drug admin: dosage, action, and side effects Bacterial Meningitis - Bacterial inflammatory disorder of the meninges that cover the brain and spinal cord • Usually caused by H. influenza (less prevalent), S. pneumo, and N. meninges • Source: middle ear or nasopharynx, wounds, fractures of skull, lumbar punctures, shunts • Exudate covers brain  cerebral edema occurs • Lumbar puncture shows:  Increased WBC, decreased glucose, elevated protein  Increased ICP, positive culture for meningitis - Decreased glucose and elevated protein occur b/c bacteria present in the CSF consume the glucose and then defecate the protein - Nursing assessment • Older children: classic signs of increased ICP (hydrocephalus), fever, chills, neck stiffness, opisthotonos, photophoia, (+) kernig sign (inability to extend leg when thigh is flexed anteriorly at hip), (+) Brudzinski sign (neck flexion causing adduction and flexion movements of lower extremities) • Infants and younger children (3mos-2y/o): absence of classic signs, ill w/ generalized symptoms, poor feeding, vomiting, irritability, bulging fontanel (IMPORTANT), seizures • Neonates (birth-2mos): very difficult to diagnose, temp = nonspecific – may be normal, hypothermia or hyperthermia, symptoms can appear a few days after birth. Infant has difficulty eating/refuses to eat. Weak cry, vomiting and diarrhea. movement decreases w/ tone, restless – sleep pattern changes. Late sign = bulging/tense fontanel - Plans/interventions • AB – ampicillin, ceftriaxone, or chloramphenicol • Antipyretics • Isolate for at least 24 hours • Monitor vitals and neuro  seizure precautions • Position (comfort): HOB slightly elevated and client on side (if prescribed) • HC daily (infants) • Hib vaccine  to protect against H.influenzae - Monitor hydration status & IV therapy carefully. w/ meningitis, may be inappropriate ADH secretions  fluid retention (cerebral edema) and dilution hyponatremia Reye Syndrome - Acute, rapidly progressing encephalopathy and hepatic dysfunction • Causes: antecedent viral infections (flu, chicken pox), occurrence often assoc. w/ aspirin • Staged according to the clinical manifestations to reflect severity of the condition - Assessment • School-age (usually) • Lethargy, rapidly progressing to deep coma (marked cerebral edema), vomiting • Labs: elevated AST, ALT, lactate dehydrogenase, serum ammonia  Decreased PT - Plans/interventions • Critical care early in syndrome • Monitor neuro status: frequent noninvasive assessments and invasive ICP monitoring • Maintain ventilation • Monitor cardiac parameters/invasive cardiac monitoring • Mannitol (if prescribed)  increase blood osmolality  Osmotic diuretic used to reduce cerebral edema, postoperative swelling or trauma  Adverse reactions: circulatory overload, confusion, hypokalemia, hyponatremia  Nursing implications: use in-line filter for IV admin and avoid extravasation, monitor I/O, furosemide (Lasix) may also be prescribed • Monitor I/O, Foley catheter care • Emotional support Brain Tumors - Third most common cancer in children (after leukemia and lymphomas) • Most: infratentorial  difficult to excise surgically, close to vital structures • Medullablastoma: most common childhood brain tumor - Assessment • Headache  Headache upon awakening = common presenting symptom of brain tumor in children • Vomiting (usually morning) w/o nausea • Loss of concentration, change in behavior/personality • Vision problems, tilting of head • Infants: widening sutures, increasing frontal occiput circumference, tense fontanel - Plans/interventions • ID baseline neuro functioning • Support child/family during dx and tx (assess family’s response, plan teaching) • Surgery  provide preoperational teaching  Head will be shaved  Describe ICU, dressings, IV lines, etc  ID child’s developmental level, plan teaching accordingly • After surgery: position client as prescribed by HCP  Most post-op clients w/ infratentorial tumors are prescribed to lie flat or turn to either side  Large tumor  may require that child NOT be turned to the operative side • Monitor IV fluids and output carefully. Overhydrating  cerebral edema and increased ICP  Suctioning, coughing, straining, and turning can  increased ICP • Administer steroi