A child is admitted to the hospital with a vaso-occlusive sickle cell crisis. Which prescription by the health care provider should the nurse implement first?

Dust the child's room with a damp cloth every week.

Choice A rationale:

Dusting the child's room with a damp cloth weekly is the most appropriate strategy. This minimizes allergen exposure by capturing and removing dust particles instead of dispersing them, as dry dusting might. Consistent, thorough cleaning can help prevent exacerbations.

Choice B rationale:

Providing down pillows might aggravate allergies due to their potential to harbor dust mites and allergens, worsening the child's asthma symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Using a warm mist humidifier could promote mold growth and allergen accumulation in the room, potentially worsening asthma symptoms rather than alleviating them.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the child to go outside in cold air during an asthma attack is not recommended. Cold air can trigger bronchospasms and worsen asthma symptoms, making this strategy potentially harmful.

Choice A rationale:

Placing the infant on her left side with a pillow supporting her back after feeding is appropriate as it prevents aspiration and reflux due to gravity.

Choice B rationale:

Covering the cast with a towel to prevent accidental soiling is a sensible action, ensuring the cast remains clean and dry.

Choice C rationale:

The mother using the football hold to position the infant securely to one side might hinder the cast's stability and could potentially cause discomfort or displacement.

Choice D rationale:

Supporting both the infant's head and cast when leaning her forward for burping is essential to maintain the cast's integrity and to prevent strain on the infant's body.