Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

In assessing a school-age child with an infratentorial brain tumor, which symptom may indicate increased intracranial pressure?

1. Hypotension.

2. Reports insomnia.

3. Difficulty concentrating.

4. Tachycardia.

The correct answer is: Difficulty concentrating.

In a school-age child with an infratentorial brain tumor, difficulty concentrating may indicate increased intracranial pressure (ICP). This symptom is often associated with cognitive dysfunction that can occur as a result of elevated pressure on the brain, which may interfere with normal brain functions including attention and concentration. Increased ICP can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, and cognitive changes such as difficulty concentrating are common as the brain’s ability to process information becomes compromised. Other symptoms of increased ICP might include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and altered consciousness, but in this context, difficulty concentrating can be an early and significant indication of the increased stress on the neurological system caused by the tumor and consequent pressure. Identifying cognitive changes helps guide further evaluation and management of the child's health condition.