A nurse is caring for a child who has a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
Obtain blood cultures.
Administer an intravenous antibiotic.
Prepare the child for a lumbar puncture.
Place the child in isolation.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Obtaining blood cultures is important for identifying the causative organism, but it should be done immediately before or concurrently with the administration of antibiotics.
Choice B rationale
Administering an intravenous antibiotic is the priority action for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis. Early administration of antibiotics is crucial to treat the infection and prevent complications such as brain swelling and seizures.
Choice C rationale
Preparing the child for a lumbar puncture is necessary for diagnosing meningitis, but it should not delay the administration of antibiotics.
Choice D rationale
Placing the child in isolation is important to prevent the spread of infection, but it is not the immediate priority over administering antibiotics.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Varying the child’s schedule each day can create a sense of unpredictability and insecurity. According to Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, children in this age group (10 years old) are in the stage of industry versus inferiority. They need a sense of routine and structure to develop a sense of competence and accomplishment. A consistent schedule helps them feel secure and focused on their tasks.
Choice B rationale
Providing a daily session with a play therapist can be beneficial for the child’s emotional well- being. However, it does not directly address the child’s need for a sense of competence and accomplishment. According to Erikson’s theory, children in this age group need to develop a sense of industry by mastering tasks and completing school work.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to complete school work helps promote a sense of industry and competence. According to Erikson’s theory, children in this age group need to develop a sense of accomplishment through mastering tasks. Completing school work provides them with a sense of purpose and achievement, which is essential for their psychosocial development.
Choice D rationale
Discouraging visits from the client’s friends can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. According to Erikson’s theory, social interactions and relationships are important for the child’s psychosocial development. Encouraging visits from friends can help the child feel connected and supported during their hospitalization.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Obtaining blood cultures is important for identifying the causative organism, but it should be done immediately before or concurrently with the administration of antibiotics.
Choice B rationale
Administering an intravenous antibiotic is the priority action for a child with suspected bacterial meningitis. Early administration of antibiotics is crucial to treat the infection and prevent complications such as brain swelling and seizures.
Choice C rationale
Preparing the child for a lumbar puncture is necessary for diagnosing meningitis, but it should not delay the administration of antibiotics.
Choice D rationale
Placing the child in isolation is important to prevent the spread of infection, but it is not the immediate priority over administering antibiotics.