Question

The nurse is preparing a patient for cranial surgery to provide an alternate pathway to redirect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). What surgery should the nurse ensure the consent is signed for?

a) Burr hole
b) Craniotomy
c) Shunt placement
d) Stereotactic procedure

Answer 1

The consent should be signed for shunt placement surgery, which is used to create an alternate pathway for CSF drainage in cases such as hydrocephalus. The shunt typically drains CSF to the abdominal cavity, where it is reabsorbed. Adjustable pressure valves are used to ensure the correct rate of CSF drainage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The surgery that the nurse should ensure the consent is signed for when preparing a patient to redirect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is shunt placement. This surgical procedure involves the implantation of a device known as a shunt to treat conditions like hydrocephalus. The shunt creates an alternate pathway for the CSF to be drained, generally to the abdominal cavity, where it can then be reabsorbed into the bloodstream.

Creating the optimal balance between CSF production and removal is crucial, which is why some shunts have adjustable pressure valves. These adjustable valves allow healthcare providers to regulate the rate of CSF drainage, preventing complications such as underdraining or overdraining.

Other surgical procedures like burr holes or craniotomies may be performed for different indications. For instance, burr holes are drilled into the skull to relieve pressure or to provide access for other procedures, and craniotomies involve removing a section of the skull to access the brain.