When caring for an infant with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When caring for an infant with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), maintaining a patent airway is crucial. Suctioning the nasopharynx as needed helps clear secretions, prevent airway obstruction, and promote effective breathing. This intervention can aid in improving the infant's respiratory status and overall comfort.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During a vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell anemia, maintaining bed rest is crucial to reduce oxygen consumption and alleviate pain. Movement can worsen the crisis by increasing sickling of red blood cells, leading to further tissue damage and pain. Bed rest helps to improve blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "Monitor the infant's heart rate prior to administering the medication," is the correct instruction to provide to the parent of an infant with a new prescription for digoxin. Digoxin is a medication commonly prescribed for infants with heart conditions to help regulate their heart rate. Monitoring the infant's heart rate before administering the medication is crucial because digoxin can affect the heart rate, and giving it when the heart rate is too low can be dangerous. Option A, "Repeat the dose if the infant vomits," is incorrect because if the infant vomits after taking digoxin, the dose should not be repeated. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if vomiting occurs to determine the next steps. Option B, "Mix the medication with food," is incorrect because digoxin should be administered on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness. Option C, "Give the medication with meals," is also incorrect because, as mentioned earlier, digoxin should be given on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Educationally, it is important to emphasize to parents the specific instructions for administering medications to infants, especially ones like digoxin that can have significant effects on the child's health. Parents should be encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification from healthcare providers if they are unsure about how to administer medications properly. This helps prevent medication errors and ensures the safety and well-being of the infant.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Monitor the child's weight daily. Osteomyelitis is a serious infection of the bone, and monitoring the child's weight daily is crucial in assessing their nutritional status and overall health. Weight changes can indicate disease progression or response to treatment, so close monitoring is essential. Administering aspirin for pain (option A) is contraindicated in children with viral infections like osteomyelitis due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. Applying ice to the affected area (option B) is not appropriate as it can worsen the infection by vasoconstriction and reducing blood flow to the area. Limiting the child's activity (option D) may be necessary in some cases to prevent further complications, but it is not the priority in this situation. From an educational standpoint, understanding the importance of monitoring a child's weight in conditions like osteomyelitis helps nurses provide holistic care. It emphasizes the significance of ongoing assessment and the role of nursing interventions in managing pediatric patients with complex health needs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In infants with heart failure, one of the key manifestations is weight gain due to fluid retention. The heart's inability to pump effectively can lead to fluid buildup in the body, causing weight gain. Bounding pulses, hyperactivity, and increased urine output are not typically associated with heart failure in infants.