Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) Practice Exam

What is a potential complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage that may arise from blockage of arachnoid villi?

1. Cerebral edema

2. Communicating hydrocephalus

3. Brain herniation

4. Intracranial pressure increase

The correct answer is: Communicating hydrocephalus

Communicating hydrocephalus is a potential complication that can occur after a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to the blockage of arachnoid villi. When bleeding into the subarachnoid space occurs, the blood can irritate and disrupt the normal function of the arachnoid villi, which are responsible for the reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the venous system. If these villi become obstructed or dysfunctional, it can lead to an accumulation of CSF in the ventricular system, resulting in communicating hydrocephalus. This condition is characterized by an increase in CSF volume despite the flowing nature of the CSF pathways, as the obstruction prevents proper absorption into the bloodstream. It's crucial to understand that while other complications may arise from subarachnoid hemorrhage, the specific involvement of arachnoid villi blockage leading to communicating hydrocephalus highlights the intricate relationship between CSF dynamics and subarachnoid hemorrhage.