The nurse is caring for a 9-month-old infant who just returned from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) after a shunt placement for hydrocephalus. Which healthcare provider prescription should the nurse question?
A) Vital signs and neurologic checks hourly
B) Small, frequent formula feedings
C) Elevate head of bed
D) Daily head circumference

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevating the head of the bed after shunt placement for hydrocephalus can increase the risk of overdrainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), potentially leading to complications such as subdural hematoma. Positioning should be carefully managed postoperatively according to specific medical advice, often keeping the head in a neutral position initially.

The Nurse Is Caring for a 9-Month-Old Infant Who Just