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Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Nursing Care of Infants With a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Rachel A Joseph1, Michaela R Killian, Emily E Brady
1West Chester University of Pennsylvania, Exton (Dr Joseph and Mss Killian and Brady); and Christiana Care Health Systems, Newark, Delaware (Dr Joseph).
Insights
Nurses play a crucial role in caring for infants with hydrocephalus and ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. Vigilant monitoring and parental preparation are key to managing complications and ensuring optimal outcomes for these infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Neonatal Nursing
- Hydrocephalus Management
Background:
- Hydrocephalus in infants often necessitates ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement to manage intracranial pressure.
- Adequate knowledge of VP shunt care is vital for nurses and parents of affected infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the nursing role in hydrocephalus care, post-VP shunt placement, complication prevention, and home care preparation.
- To enhance the care provided to infants with hydrocephalus and VP shunts.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
- Searched electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE), systematic reviews, and specialized hydrocephalus association websites.
Main Results:
- Early identification of complications is crucial, with younger infants facing higher risks post-VP shunt placement.
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses require specialized knowledge for hydrocephalus and VP shunt care.
- Monitoring for increased intracranial pressure signs aids timely intervention; equipping families aids shunt failure management.
Conclusions:
- Vigilant nursing care and informed parental support are essential for infants with VP shunts.
- Further research is needed to develop guidelines and understand caregiver burden for improved parental preparation.
Background:
Infants with congenital or posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus may require a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to divert the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, thus preventing increase in intracranial pressure. Knowledge on various aspects of caring for a child with a VP shunt will enable new and experienced nurses to better care for these infants and equip parents for ongoing care at home.
Purpose:
To review the nurses' role in care of infants with hydrocephalus, care after VP shunt placement, prevention of complications, and parental preparation for home care.
Methods/Search Strategy:
A literature review involving electronic databases, such as CINAHL and MEDLINE, Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews, and resources from the Web sites of the National Hydrocephalus Foundation and Hydrocephalus Association, was performed to gather evidence for current practice information.
Findings And Implications For Practice And Research:
Vigilant care can help with early identification of potential complications. The younger the infant at VP shunt placement, the higher the occurrence of complications. All neonatal intensive care unit nurses must be equipped with knowledge and skills to care for infants with hydrocephalus and those who undergo VP shunt placement. Monitoring for early signs of increased intracranial pressure can facilitate timely diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention. Equipping families will be helpful in early identification and timely management of shunt failure. Research on infants with VP shunt placement is essential to develop appropriate guidelines and explore experiences of families to identify caregiver burden and improve parental preparation.
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