Question

A patient presents with a shunt malfunction related to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). On examination, which findings would the nurse observe? Select all that apply.

-Cough

-Blurred vision

-Gaseous distention

-Headache and vomiting

-Decreased level of consciousness

Answer 1

A patient with a shunt malfunction related to increased ICP may present with blurred vision, headache and vomiting, and decreased level of consciousness.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient has a shunt malfunction related to increased intracranial pressure (ICP), there are several findings that the nurse may observe on examination. These include:

1. Blurred vision: Increased ICP can affect the optic nerve and lead to visual disturbances.
2. Headache and vomiting: Headache is a common symptom of increased ICP, and vomiting can occur due to the pressure on the brain.
3. Decreased level of consciousness: As ICP increases, it can result in a decreased level of consciousness, ranging from confusion to coma.

Therefore, the correct findings that the nurse may observe in a patient with a shunt malfunction related to increased ICP are blurred vision, headache and vomiting, and decreased level of consciousness.