A child has come into the emergency department after a confirmed bite from a brown recluse. Which action can the nurse take to alleviate pain?

The correct answer is choice B: "I have to stay on strict bed rest for 3 days."

Choice A rationale:

The statement "I should avoid tub baths but may shower" is correct. After a cardiac catheterization, the patient needs to keep the insertion site clean and dry to prevent infection. Showering is allowed, but tub baths should be avoided to minimize the risk of introducing water into the insertion site.

Choice B rationale:

The statement "I have to stay on strict bed rest for 3 days" is incorrect. Bed rest is not typically required after a cardiac catheterization. While the patient might need to lie flat for a few hours after the procedure to prevent bleeding and ensure hemostasis, strict bed rest for three days is unnecessary and could lead to complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or deconditioning.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "I may attend school but should avoid exercise for several days" is correct. Attending school is generally acceptable after a cardiac catheterization, but exercise should be limited for several days to allow the insertion site to heal and to prevent complications like bleeding or hematoma formation.

Choice D rationale:

The statement "I should remove the pressure dressing the day after the procedure" is correct. Pressure dressings are typically removed by healthcare professionals after a specified period, which is usually around 24 hours after the procedure. Removing the dressing on their own the day after the procedure could lead to disruption of the wound and increase the risk of infection.

Answer is: d. Apply direct pressure above the catheterization site.

Explanation: The first action should be to apply direct pressure above the catheterization site to help control the bleeding and minimize blood loss. This will also give the nurse time to prepare additional interventions or supplies if necessary.

Choice a. is wrong because placing the child in the Trendelenburg position is not an appropriate initial nursing action in this scenario. This position can increase intracranial pressure and is typically used for patients experiencing shock or hypotension.

Choice b. is wrong because applying a new bandage with more pressure might be a subsequent action, but the priority is to apply direct pressure to slow down the bleeding.

Choice c. is wrong because notifying the physician is important, but the nurse should first take immediate action to control the bleeding and minimize potential harm to the patient.