A client’s infant has been diagnosed with RSV infection and is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress including wheezing and tachypnea.
The nurse explains to the client that these symptoms are likely due to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which are common complications of RSV infection in children younger than age 3.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the infant’s condition?
“I should expect my baby’s symptoms to resolve in about 10 days.”.
“I should bring my baby back to the hospital if he develops a fever.”.
“I should give my baby over-the-counter cold medicine to relieve his symptoms.”.
“I should keep my baby away from his older siblings until he recovers.”..
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should educate the client about the expected course of RSV infection in infants.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) infection can lead to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in children under the age of 3.
Symptoms like wheezing and tachypnea are indicative of respiratory distress.
Educating the client about the expected duration of the symptoms is crucial.
The client needs to understand that the baby's symptoms may last for about 10 days, and this is a common timeframe for the resolution of RSV infection in infants.
This information helps manage the client's expectations and reduces anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
While fever can be a sign of infection, it is not the most pertinent symptom to monitor in this case.
The primary concern is the respiratory distress caused by bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
While fever might indicate worsening infection, it is not the most relevant information in this context.
Choice C rationale:
Over-the-counter cold medicine is generally not recommended for infants and young children due to the risk of side effects.
Moreover, these medications may not be effective in managing the specific symptoms caused by RSV infection.
Advising the client to administer such medication could be harmful and is not an appropriate response.
Choice D rationale:
While it is essential to prevent the spread of RSV infection, especially among siblings, this choice does not address the client's understanding of the infant's condition.
The primary concern here is the client's grasp of the infant's symptoms and the expected course of the illness, which is best addressed by choice A.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
Offering frequent small feedings of breast milk or formula to maintain nutrition is an appropriate response.
Infants with RSV may experience decreased appetite and difficulty feeding due to respiratory distress.
Providing small, frequent feedings ensures that the infant receives adequate nutrition and hydration despite reduced intake during each feeding session.
Choice A rationale:
Giving the baby aspirin if they develop a fever is not recommended.
Aspirin use in children with viral infections like RSV has been associated with Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition.
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if appropriate for the child's age, can be used to manage fever and discomfort.
Choice C rationale:
Keeping the baby in a flat position to promote comfort is not advisable.
Elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly can help improve breathing and reduce nasal congestion in infants with respiratory infections, promoting better comfort and easier breathing.
Choice D rationale:
Stopping all feedings if the baby seems to be having trouble breathing is not The correct approach.
Adequate nutrition is crucial for the infant's overall health and recovery.
Instead, the caregiver should seek medical advice if the baby experiences significant difficulty breathing or feeding.
Adjustments in feeding techniques or temporary alternative feeding methods may be recommended under medical supervision.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
A history of recurrent pneumonia is not a specific indicator of RSV infection.
RSV primarily affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
Choice B rationale:
This is a correct answer.
RSV symptoms typically appear 2 to 5 days after exposure.
Including this option helps identify the duration of symptoms, which is relevant to diagnosing RSV.
Choice C rationale:
This is a correct answer.
RSV commonly presents with symptoms like high fever and severe cough.
Recognizing these symptoms can help healthcare providers consider RSV as a possible diagnosis.
Choice D rationale:
This is a correct answer.
RSV can lead to bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the small airways in the lungs.
Diagnosing a child with bronchiolitis can raise suspicion of RSV infection.
Choice E rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
A history of bacterial infections is not specific to RSV and does not provide relevant information for identifying RSV infection in this context.
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