A nurse is providing care for a newborn diagnosed with hydrocephalus. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse anticipate?
A.
A forehead that slopes backward.
B.
Dilated veins on the scalp.
C.
Overlapping suture lines.
D.
Hypertension.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Dilated veins on the scalp.
Explanation:
Hydrocephalus, often referred to as “water on the brain,” is a condition in which there is an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. This condition leads to increased intracranial pressure, which can cause a range of symptoms and physical signs. In a newborn with hydrocephalus, the following symptoms and physical findings are often anticipated:
- Dilated Veins on the Scalp (Option B): One of the common physical signs of hydrocephalus in newborns is the presence of dilated veins on the scalp. This occurs due to increased intracranial pressure that causes the veins on the surface of the head to become more prominent. These veins become more visible because they are compensating for the increased pressure within the skull, which disrupts normal venous drainage. This symptom is a direct result of the increased pressure in the cranial cavity and is a key indicator for healthcare providers.
- A Forehead that Slopes Backward (Option A): Although a prominent forehead is a common feature in infants with hydrocephalus due to the enlargement of the ventricles, the forehead typically appears more bulging or protruding rather than sloping backward. The head’s enlargement can lead to a high, prominent forehead, but this is not the same as a forehead that slopes backward.
- Overlapping Suture Lines (Option C): Overlapping suture lines can occur in newborns as a normal part of delivery, especially in cases of prolonged labor or molding of the skull. However, in the context of hydrocephalus, the sutures may become separated or widened rather than overlapping, as the increased CSF accumulation can cause expansion of the skull.
- Hypertension (Option D): Hypertension is not typically associated with hydrocephalus in newborns. The primary issue in hydrocephalus is the increased intracranial pressure rather than systemic hypertension. Newborns with hydrocephalus may not exhibit high blood pressure, and systemic hypertension is not a direct symptom of this condition.
In summary, dilated veins on the scalp are a notable symptom of hydrocephalus due to increased intracranial pressure. This physical finding is significant for the diagnosis and management of the condition in newborns.