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 the risk factors for drug reactions to penicillins and cephalosporins is crucial for safe medication administration. The correct answer, option B, "increasing age (>20 years)," is right because pediatrics refers to the care of infants, children, and adolescents, typically up to 18 years of age. Therefore, individuals above 20 years are not considered pediatric patients. Option A, "previous drug exposure," is a common risk factor for drug reactions as sensitization can develop after initial exposure. This is especially relevant in pediatrics where children may have had previous medication exposures. Option C, "higher dose," is a significant risk factor for drug reactions as dosing errors or inappropriate dosages can lead to adverse reactions. In pediatrics, dosing calculations must be precise due to the child's size and weight. Option D, "intermittent repeated exposure," is also a risk factor as repeated exposures can increase the likelihood of developing sensitivities or reactions to the medication, especially in pediatrics where repeated courses of antibiotics are common. Educationally, understanding these risk factors is vital for pediatric nurses to ensure safe medication practices. By recognizing factors that contribute to drug reactions, nurses can implement preventive measures, such as thorough patient assessments, accurate dosing calculations, and monitoring for adverse effects. This knowledge enhances patient safety and quality of care in pediatric nursing practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In distinguishing between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis histologically, the presence of granulomata is a key feature that differentiates the two conditions. Granulomata are clusters of immune cells, typically macrophages, that form in response to chronic inflammation. In the context of Crohn's disease, granulomata are commonly found in the affected tissues, particularly in the submucosal layers. This feature is not typically seen in ulcerative colitis. Crypt abscesses, another option in the question, are more commonly associated with ulcerative colitis. These abscesses result from the accumulation of inflammatory cells within the crypts of the intestinal lining. Lymphocytic infiltrate, while a feature of both conditions, is not as specific a differentiator as granulomata. Paneth cells are specialized cells found in 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, especially pediatric nurses. Recognizing these differences can aid in accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment planning, and monitoring of disease progression in pediatric patients. By emphasizing the significance of granulomata in Crohn's disease, nurses can contribute to improved patient outcomes through early detection and targeted interventions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is C) anaphylaxis to a wasp sting. Immunotherapy is a treatment that aims to desensitize the immune system to specific allergens. In the case of anaphylaxis to a wasp sting, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, immunotherapy may not provide sufficient symptomatic improvement or protection in the event of future stings. Option A, ragweed allergy, and option D, house dust mite allergy, are conditions where immunotherapy can be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life by decreasing the body's allergic response to these allergens. Option B, a local reaction to a bee sting, is also a situation where immunotherapy can be beneficial in reducing the severity of future reactions to bee stings. In a pediatric nursing context, understanding the limitations and effectiveness of different treatment modalities is crucial for providing safe and evidence-based care to children with allergies. Educating patients and their families about the appropriate use of immunotherapy and its potential outcomes is essential in pediatric nursing practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, it is crucial to understand strategies to minimize allergies, especially to common allergens like house dust mites. The correct answer, option D, which is keeping household humidity to less than 50%, is recommended as helpful in minimizing allergies to house dust mites for several reasons. House dust mites thrive in humid environments, so maintaining humidity levels below 50% helps to inhibit their growth and reduce allergen exposure. This measure is supported by research and guidelines from organizations like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Option A, maximizing time spent in one room, is incorrect because dust mites are present throughout the house, not just in one room, so confining oneself to a single room does not effectively minimize exposure. Option B, washing bedding weekly in cold water, is a good practice to reduce dust mite allergens but may not be as effective as controlling humidity levels. Option C, installing new carpet, is not recommended as carpets can harbor dust mites and allergens, exacerbating allergies. In an educational context, it is important for pediatric nurses to be knowledgeable about evidence-based strategies to manage allergies in children. Teaching caregivers about the impact of humidity on dust mite allergies and providing practical advice on maintaining optimal humidity levels can help improve children's quality of life and reduce allergy symptoms. Understanding the rationale behind each answer equips nurses with the knowledge to educate families effectively and implement holistic care strategies to support pediatric patients with allergies.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, understanding the appropriate treatment options for common conditions is crucial for providing effective care. In this scenario, the recommended treatment option for the patient in Question 29 is oral antihistamines (Option A). Oral antihistamines are often the first-line treatment for allergic conditions like allergic rhinitis or mild allergic reactions in children. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction, thereby reducing symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Topical corticosteroids (Option B) are typically used for localized skin conditions like eczema and should not be the first choice for systemic allergic reactions. Oral corticosteroids (Option C) are reserved for severe allergic reactions or conditions that do not respond to antihistamines due to their potential side effects. Immunotherapy (Option D) is a long-term treatment option for severe allergies and is not typically the initial choice for mild allergic reactions in pediatric patients. In an educational context, it is important for nursing students to understand the rationale behind treatment choices in pediatric patients to provide safe and effective care. By knowing the appropriate use of medications like oral antihistamines and their alternatives, nurses can help manage allergic conditions in children and improve patient outcomes.