Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

As a nurse caring for a child post-myelo surgery, what is a priority in daily assessments?

1. Evaluating hydration status

2. Checking for infection

3. Measuring head circumference

4. Assessing pain levels

The correct answer is: Measuring head circumference

The priority in daily assessments for a child post-myelo surgery involves measuring head circumference. This postoperative care is particularly vital because myelomeningocele, a type of spina bifida, often leads to complications such as increased intracranial pressure, which can manifest as an increase in head circumference. Monitoring head circumference regularly provides insight into the child's neurological status and helps in the early detection of potential complications related to cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, such as hydrocephalus. Assessing hydration status, checking for infection, and evaluating pain levels are also important components of postoperative care, but measuring head circumference is specifically critical in the context of myelomeningocele surgery. It directly relates to the unique risks associated with the procedure and the potential for significant health repercussions if changes in intracranial pressure are not detected promptly.