A nurse in a clinic is assessing a 7-month-old infant. Which of the following indicates a need for further evaluation?

Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because having them share a room with a child with active mumps may expose them to infection and worsen their condition. A child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents has a weakened immune system and is more susceptible to infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Therefore, they should be placed in a private room or cohorted with another immunosuppressed child.

Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because restricting oral fluids may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in the child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents. A child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents may have increased fluid losses from vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or sweating. Therefore, they should be encouraged to drink adequate fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because strict isolation may cause psychological distress and social isolation in the child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents. A child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents may benefit from protective isolation, which involves using standard precautions and additional measures such as wearing gloves, gowns, masks, or eye protection when in contact with the child or their body fluids. However, strict isolation, which involves limiting visitors and activities, may harm the child's emotional and developmental well-being.

Choice D reason: This choice is correct because using good handwashing is essential nursing care for a child who is immunosuppressed due to leukemia or chemotherapeutic agents. Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of microorganisms that can cause infections. The nurse should wash their hands before and after touching the child or their belongings, and teach the child and their family members to do the same. The nurse should also use alcohol-based hand rubs when water and soap are not available.

Choice A reason: This choice is correct because providing a latex-free environment is an essential intervention for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Spina bifida is a congenital defect in which the spinal cord and its coverings do not close properly, resulting in a protrusion of the meninges (meningocele) or the meninges and spinal cord (myelomeningocele). Children who have spina bifida are at a high risk of developing a latex allergy, which can cause severe reactions such as anaphylaxis or death. Therefore, avoiding exposure to latex products such as gloves, catheters, balloons, or bandages is crucial to prevent complications.

Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because initiating contact precautions is not necessary for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Contact precautions are infection control measures that prevent the transmission of microorganisms that can be spread by direct or indirect contact with the client or their environment. They may be indicated for clients who have multidrug-resistant organisms, clostridium difficile, or scabies, but they are not required for clients who have spina bifida unless they have a concurrent infection.

Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because limiting visitors to immediate family members is not indicated for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Limiting visitors may be indicated for clients who have immunosuppression, isolation, or terminal illness, but it may not be beneficial for clients who have spina bifida. Allowing visitors may provide emotional and social support for the client and their family, as long as they follow standard precautions and do not pose any risk of infection or injury.

Choice D reason: This choice is incorrect because maintaining the infant in the supine position is not an appropriate intervention for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac.
Maintaining the infant in the supine position may cause pressure or trauma to the sac, which can lead to rupture, infection, or nerve damage. Therefore, positioning the infant in a prone or side-lying position with the hips flexed and knees abducted can help to protect the sac and prevent complications.