Drug reactions to penicillins and cephalosporins are common in pediatrics. Risk factors for drug reactions include all the following EXCEPT

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing practice, understanding drug reactions to penicillins and cephalosporins is crucial due to their common usage in treating infections. The correct answer, option B, "increasing age (>20 years)," is the exception among the risk factors for drug reactions in pediatrics. This is because pediatric patients are typically younger than 20 years old, so age over 20 is not a relevant risk factor in this context. Option A, "previous drug exposure," is a common risk factor as sensitization can occur with repeated exposure. Option C, "higher dose," is also a risk factor as higher doses can increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. Option D, "intermittent repeated exposure," is another relevant risk factor as repeated exposure, even if intermittent, can still lead to sensitization and potential reactions. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding specific risk factors for drug reactions in pediatric patients when administering penicillins and cephalosporins. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to be vigilant in monitoring and assessing for potential adverse reactions, especially considering the differences in pediatric patients compared to adults. By knowing these risk factors, healthcare professionals can better anticipate and prevent potential drug reactions, ensuring safe and effective care for pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Granulomata. In the context of differentiating between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the presence of granulomas is a histological feature specific to Crohn's disease. Granulomas are collections of immune cells that form in response to chronic inflammatory conditions, and their presence in the intestinal tissue helps to distinguish Crohn's from ulcerative colitis. Option A) Crypt abscesses are a feature seen in ulcerative colitis, not Crohn's disease. They represent the accumulation of neutrophils in the crypts of the intestinal glands. Option C) Lymphocytic infiltrate is a nonspecific finding in both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and therefore does not differentiate between the two conditions. Option D) Paneth cells are a normal component of the small intestine and are not specific to either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. In an educational context, understanding the histological features of inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis is crucial for healthcare professionals working in pediatrics. Recognizing these differences can aid in accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment planning, and better patient outcomes. By grasping these nuances, nurses can provide more effective care to pediatric patients with these conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding immunotherapy is crucial for managing various allergic conditions in children. The correct answer is C) anaphylaxis to a wasp sting. Immunotherapy is not typically recommended for the treatment of anaphylaxis to insect stings as this condition requires immediate medical intervention like epinephrine administration and not just symptomatic relief. Option A) ragweed allergy is a common indication for immunotherapy as it helps desensitize the individual to the allergen, reducing symptoms over time. Option B) local reaction to a bee sting can also benefit from immunotherapy by reducing the severity of future reactions. Option D) house dust mite allergy is another condition where immunotherapy can provide symptomatic improvement by modulating the immune response to the allergen. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to grasp the appropriate indications for immunotherapy to effectively manage allergic conditions in children. Understanding the nuances of when to recommend or not recommend immunotherapy can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life. It is essential for nurses to stay updated on evidence-based practices in managing pediatric allergies to provide optimal care to their young patients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Keeping household humidity to less than 50% because maintaining low humidity levels helps to minimize the growth of house dust mites, a common trigger for allergies in children. House dust mites thrive in humid environments, so reducing humidity can help decrease their presence in the home. This is a key strategy in managing allergies in pediatric patients. Option A) Maximizing time spent in a single room such as the bedroom is incorrect because it does not address the root cause of the allergy, which is the presence of house dust mites throughout the home. Option B) Washing bedding weekly in cold water can help reduce dust mites, but it is not as effective as controlling humidity levels in the home. Option C) Installing new carpet can actually worsen allergies as carpets can harbor dust mites and other allergens, increasing exposure for the child. Educationally, it's important for pediatric nurses to understand the environmental factors that can exacerbate allergies in children and to provide evidence-based recommendations to families on how to minimize allergens in the home. By knowing the correct strategies to manage allergies, nurses can better support pediatric patients and their families in improving their quality of life and reducing allergy symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, it is crucial to understand the appropriate treatment options for various conditions. In the case of a patient with a condition that requires antihistamine treatment, the correct option is A) Oral antihistamines. Oral antihistamines are recommended for conditions like allergic rhinitis or mild allergic reactions in children due to their effectiveness in managing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors, reducing allergic responses. Topical corticosteroids (option B) are typically used for skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis, not for systemic allergic reactions. Oral corticosteroids (option C) are prescribed for severe allergic reactions or asthma exacerbations, but they are not the first-line treatment for mild allergic symptoms in children. Immunotherapy (option D) is a treatment option for patients with severe allergies who do not respond well to other treatments or have frequent, significant allergic reactions. It involves exposing the patient to small amounts of the allergen to desensitize their immune system over time. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind treatment options is essential for nurses caring for pediatric patients. It ensures safe and effective care delivery, considering factors like the child's age, weight, allergies, and the severity of their condition. By knowing which treatment is appropriate for a specific situation, nurses can provide optimal care and support to pediatric patients.