Use the following Case Study to answer the questions below:…
Use the following Case Study to answer the questions below: Kira, a 3-year-old female, is admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Her parents report a 2-day history of fever, irritability, decreased appetite, and vomiting. This morning, they noticed she was less responsive and had a high-pitched cry. Initial Assessment: Vital Signs: Temp 102.8°F (39.3°C), HR 130 bpm, RR 28 breaths/min, BP 110/60 mmHg, SpO2 96% on room air Lethargic, arouses only to painful stimuli. Left pupil 4mm, sluggishly reactive to light; Right pupil 3mm, briskly reactive to light. Anterior fontanelle tense and bulging, withdraws bilateral upper and lower extremities to pain stimuli, no focal deficits noted. Gag reflex present, positive Kernig’s and Brudzinki’s signs. High pitched inconsolable crying. Skin turgor slightly decreased. Past Medical History: Full-term infant, received all age-appropriate vaccinations. No significant past medical history. No recent travel or exposure to sick contacts reported by parents other than a mild cold 1 week prior 1. Based on Kira’s initial assessment findings, which of the following is the most concerning indicator of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in a 3-year-old? (Place answer for this question in first blank) A. Heart rate of 130 bpm B. Temperature of 102.8°F (39.3°C) C. Sluggishly reactive and unequal pupils D. Positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs 2. The nurse is developing a plan of care for Kira. Which nursing intervention is the highest priority for a patient with suspected increased ICP? (Place answer for this question in second blank) A. Administering antipyretics to reduce fever B. Maintaining a quiet and dimly lit environment C. Elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees with the head in a neutral position D. Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics as ordered 3. The nurse is monitoring Kira for signs of worsening neurological status. Which of the following, if observed, would indicate a late and critical sign of increased ICP and impending brain herniation? (Place answer for this question in third blank) A. Restlessness and irritability B. Headache and nausea C. Widening cranial sutures and increased head circumference D. Hypertension, bradycardia, depressed/irregular respirations
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