A nurse at a pediatric hotline receives a call from a mother who plans to administer aspirin to a toddler for a fever and wants to know the dosage. Which of the following statements by the nurse is an appropriate response?
"Give her acetaminophen, not aspirin."
"You'll have to call your physician."
"Give her no more than three baby aspirin every 4 hours."
"Follow the directions on the aspirin bottle for her age and weight."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Give her acetaminophen, not aspirin.": Aspirin is contraindicated in children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition that affects the liver and brain, especially during viral illnesses like the flu or chickenpox. Acetaminophen is a safer alternative for fever management in children.
B. "You'll have to call your physician.": While seeking physician advice is important, the nurse has a duty to provide accurate, immediate, evidence-based guidance to prevent harm.
C. "Give her no more than three baby aspirin every 4 hours.": Recommending aspirin dosing is unsafe due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
D. "Follow the directions on the aspirin bottle for her age and weight.": Providing this advice without addressing safety concerns is inappropriate and potentially harmful.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hide the medication in apple slices: This is inappropriate as the child might distrust caregivers if they realize the medication was hidden.
B. Offer the child an ice pop prior to administering the medication: An ice pop numbs taste buds and can reduce the unpleasant taste of medication.
C. Tell the child the medicine tastes like candy: Providing false information undermines trust and is unethical.
D. Inform the child that if he does not take the medication he will need a shot: Threats increase anxiety and do not foster cooperation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reduce environmental stimuli: While minimizing stimuli is important for comfort, it is not the priority in treating a life-threatening bacterial infection.
B. Document intake and output: Monitoring fluid status is essential but secondary to administering life-saving treatment.
C. Administer antibiotics when available: Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency. Administering antibiotics promptly can reduce mortality and prevent complications such as neurological damage.
D. Maintain seizure precautions: Seizure precautions are necessary but do not take precedence over starting antibiotics.