Page 2018 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

r. Prevent complications of immobility.
s. Inform the client and family about the
possible behavior changes that may
occur, including those that are
expected and those that need to be
reported.
D. Craniotomy
1. Description
a. Surgical procedure that involves an
incision through the cranium to
remove accumulated blood or a tumor
b. Complications of the procedure include
increased ICP from cerebral edema,
hemorrhage, or obstruction of the
normal flow of CSF.
c. Additional complications include
hematomas, hypovolemic shock,
hydrocephalus, respiratory and
neurogenic complications, pulmonary
edema, and wound infections.
d. Complications related to fluid

and electrolyte imbalances include
diabetes insipidus and inappropriate
secretion of antidiuretic hormone.
e. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) may be
an alternative to traditional surgery
and is usually used to treat tumors and
arteriovenous malformations.

2. Preoperative interventions

a. Explain the procedure to the client and
family.
b. Prepare to shave the client’s head as
prescribed (usually done in the
operating room) and cover the head
with an appropriate covering.
c. Stabilize the client before surgery.
3. Postoperative interventions (Box 58-10)
4. Postoperative positioning (Box 58-11)
VIII. Cerebral Aneurysm
A. Description: Dilation of the walls of a weakened cerebral artery;
can lead to rupture
B. Assessment
1. Headache and pain
2. Irritability
3. Visual changes

2018