Pediatric Nursing Demystified

Call physician for respiratory changes or decrease in pulse oximeter reading.

Monitor gag reflex.

Monitor for visual changes.

Monitor for communication ability; may need special method to commu-

nicate with staff; may not be able to use call bell system.

Turn and reposition.

Consult with social worker or chaplain for support services available to

patient.

Explain to the family the importance of turning and positioning the

patient every 2 hours and the proper care of the plasmapheresis access

site. Also explain that the patient will require home care.

CHAPTER 10/ Neurologic Conditions^223

Enlarged head

Brain with

normal ventricles

Brain with

enlarged ventricles

FIGURE 10-2