A parent calls the pediatric clinic and reports that her child has a temperature of 101°F (38.3°C). What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing action when a parent reports that their child has a temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) is to encourage the child to rest and increase fluid intake, which is option B. This response aligns with the initial management of a low-grade fever in a child. Encouraging rest helps the body conserve energy to fight off the infection causing the fever, while increasing fluid intake helps prevent dehydration, which is common with fevers. By following this approach, the child's body can better regulate its temperature and aid in the recovery process. Option A is not the best choice as waiting for 24 hours without taking any action may lead to the child's condition worsening if there is an underlying infection. Administering acetaminophen (Option C) should only be done if the child is uncomfortable or if the fever is high. Suggesting a visit to the emergency department (Option D) is premature for a low-grade fever without any other concerning symptoms. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the initial management of fevers in pediatric patients. Teaching parents about home care measures can empower them to support their child's recovery and know when further medical intervention is necessary. It is essential for nurses to provide evidence-based guidance to promote the well-being of pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for a child diagnosed with meningitis, an altered level of consciousness (Option C) would be the most concerning assessment finding for the nurse. Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. When a child with meningitis experiences an altered level of consciousness, it can indicate increased intracranial pressure or neurological compromise, which can be life-threatening and require immediate intervention. Option A, headache, is a common symptom of meningitis but may not be as concerning as an altered level of consciousness. Option B, nausea and vomiting, can also occur with meningitis but are more general symptoms. Option D, neck stiffness, is another classic sign of meningitis (meningismus) but, while important, may not be as immediately alarming as a change in level of consciousness. Educationally, this question highlights the critical assessment skills required when caring for pediatric patients with meningitis. Nurses need to prioritize and recognize the most severe symptoms that require prompt intervention to prevent complications and ensure the best outcomes for their patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the primary treatment for type 1 diabetes is crucial for providing comprehensive care to the child and their family. The correct answer is B) Insulin injections. Type 1 diabetes results from the body's inability to produce insulin, a hormone necessary for regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin injections are essential to replace the missing insulin in these children, helping to control their blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Option A) Diet and exercise are important components of managing diabetes, but in type 1 diabetes where the body does not produce insulin, these measures alone cannot address the underlying cause of the condition. Option C) Oral medications are not used as the primary treatment for type 1 diabetes because oral medications are not effective in replacing the missing insulin in the body. Option D) Pancreatic transplant is a treatment option for severe cases of type 1 diabetes, but it is not the primary treatment. Insulin injections remain the primary and most effective way to manage type 1 diabetes in children. Educationally, it is important for nurses to convey this information to parents clearly and effectively to ensure they understand the critical role of insulin therapy in managing their child's condition. Nurses should provide thorough education on insulin administration, monitoring blood sugar levels, recognizing symptoms of hypo/hyperglycemia, and the importance of a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes diet, exercise, and regular medical follow-ups.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) To monitor the child's daily respiratory function. A peak flow meter is a simple device used to measure how well a person's lungs are working by assessing how quickly air is exhaled. In the context of asthma management, a peak flow meter is a valuable tool to monitor the child's respiratory function on a daily basis. By recording peak flow readings regularly, parents and healthcare providers can track changes in the child's lung function, identify early signs of worsening asthma, and adjust treatment accordingly. Option A) To measure the child's blood oxygen level is incorrect because a peak flow meter does not measure oxygen levels, but rather measures the speed at which a person can blow air out of their lungs. Option B) To monitor the severity of an asthma attack is incorrect because while peak flow readings can be used during an asthma attack to assess the severity, the primary purpose is to monitor daily lung function. Option C) To measure the child's lung volume is incorrect because a peak flow meter measures the rate of airflow, not the volume of air in the lungs. Educationally, understanding the purpose of a peak flow meter empowers parents to actively participate in their child's asthma management, enabling them to recognize trends, intervene early, and collaborate effectively with healthcare providers to optimize the child's respiratory health. Regular monitoring with a peak flow meter can lead to better asthma control, reduced exacerbations, and improved quality of life for the child.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In caring for a child receiving chemotherapy, the priority nursing assessment is monitoring for signs of infection (Option A). Chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, increasing the child's susceptibility to infections. Early detection and prompt treatment of infections are crucial in preventing complications and improving outcomes in these vulnerable patients. Monitoring nutritional intake (Option B) is important for overall health but may not be the priority in this scenario. Assessing pain levels (Option C) is essential for holistic care but does not take precedence over infection monitoring. Monitoring for signs of bleeding (Option D) is important, but infections pose a more immediate threat to the child's well-being in this context. In an educational context, understanding the priorities in caring for pediatric patients receiving chemotherapy is vital for nurses. This knowledge ensures that interventions are focused on addressing the most critical needs first, promoting patient safety and well-being. Nurses must be adept at recognizing and responding to signs of infection promptly to provide optimal care for these vulnerable children.