A nurse at a pediatric hotline receives a call from a mother who plans to administer aspirin to a toddler for a fever and wants to know the dosage.
Which of the following statements by the nurse is an appropriate response?
“Follow the directions on the aspirin bottle for her age and weight.”.
“She should be given acetaminophen, not aspirin.”.
“Just be sure you administer the medication with food.”.
“Give her no more than three baby aspirin every 4 hours.”.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
It’s not advisable to follow the directions on the aspirin bottle for her age and weight. Aspirin is not recommended for use in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect the liver and brain.
Choice B rationale
This is the correct response. Acetaminophen is a safer alternative to aspirin for managing fever in children.
Choice C rationale
While it’s generally a good idea to administer medication with food to prevent stomach upset, this advice does not address the specific risks associated with giving aspirin to a toddler.
Choice D rationale
Giving a toddler three baby aspirin every 4 hours is not recommended due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Mucus and blood in stools, often described as “currant jelly” stools, are a common symptom of intussusception.
Choice B rationale
Increased appetite is not typically associated with intussusception. In fact, children with this condition may experience decreased appetite due to abdominal pain.
Choice C rationale
Jaundice is not a symptom of intussusception. Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, is more commonly associated with liver conditions.
Choice D rationale
Drooling is not a typical symptom of intussusception. Symptoms of intussusception are primarily gastrointestinal, including abdominal pain and bloody stools.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The symptoms described by the parent - projectile vomiting followed by hunger - could indicate a serious condition such as pyloric stenosis, which is a narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the small intestine. This condition can lead to severe dehydration and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
While burping can help to relieve gas and minor stomach discomfort, it would not address the underlying issue causing the projectile vomiting. This advice might be appropriate for a baby with simple colic or gas, but not for the symptoms described.
Choice C rationale
While oral rehydrating solutions can help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, they do not address the underlying cause of the projectile vomiting. Furthermore, if the baby is vomiting frequently, they may not be able to keep down the solution.
Choice D rationale
Switching formulas can sometimes help babies who have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their current formula. However, the symptoms described are not typical of a formula intolerance or allergy. Moreover, switching formulas without seeking medical advice can potentially lead to other complications.
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