When a 2-week-old infant is seen for irritability, poor appetite, and rapid head growth with an observable distended scalp vein, the nurse recognizes these signs as indicative of which condition?
a. Hydrocephalus
b. SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidi-uretic hormone)
c. Cerebral palsy
d. Reye's syndrome
A
The combination of signs is strongly suggestive of hydrocephalus. SIADH would not present in this way. The child would have decreased urination, hypertension, weight gain, fluid retention, hyponatremia, and increased urine specific gravity. The manifestations of cerebral palsy vary but may include persistence of primitive reflexes, delayed gross motor development, and lack of progression through developmental milestones. Reye's syndrome is associated with an antecedent viral infection with symptoms of malaise, nausea, and vomiting. Progressive neurological deterioration occurs.
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