Care and management of the child with shunted hydrocephalus

Abstract

This article reviews the physiology of cerebrospinal fluid formation and flow, the causes of hydrocephalus in the pediatric patient, symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, recent advances in shunt technology, the medical and surgical management of hydrocephalus, and potential complications of ventricular shunting devices. Nursing care in the post-operative period and for the child with shunt malfunction is discussed, as well as the long-term management needs and anticipatory guidance issues as related to a child with a ventricular shunting device. A case study of an infant with hydrocephalus illustrates key concepts.