A Patient Recovering from a Frontal Craniotomy Is Positioned with the Head

question 1

Multiple Choice

A patient recovering from a frontal craniotomy is positioned with the head of the bed elevated 45 degrees at all times.What rationale would the nurse provide for this position?

• A)The brain will compress the cerebral veins less in this position.
• B)The ventricles of the brain will drain better in this position.
• C)This position allows for less pain for the patient.
• D)The cerebral spinal veins are valveless and drain by gravity.

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Definitions:

Ventricular Hydrocephalus

Ventricular hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain, leading to increased pressure and potential damage to brain tissues.

Blockage of CSF

An obstruction in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can lead to conditions like hydrocephalus, influencing brain pressure.

Thalamus

A brain structure that acts as a relay center, processing and transmitting sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.

Third Ventricle

A median cleft between the two halves of the brain that is filled with cerebrospinal fluid.