A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a child who has a temperature of 39.1° C (102.4° F) and a suspected diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A Reason:

Encourage frequent physical activity to increase bone mass: While physical activity is generally beneficial for overall health, in the case of osteomyelitis, encouraging excessive or frequent physical activity might exacerbate pain, discomfort, and the risk of further bone injury. Controlled and appropriate physical activity may be recommended, but it should be individualized based on the child's condition and the affected area.

Choice B Reason:

Provide a high-calorie, low-protein diet: In osteomyelitis, a balanced and nutritious diet is important to support the child's overall health and aid in recovery. However, a high-calorie, low-protein diet would not be suitable for combating infection or supporting healing. Adequate protein intake is essential for tissue repair and immune function.

Choice C Reason:

Initiate contact precautions for the child: Osteomyelitis is not typically transmitted from person to person. It's an infection within the bone that doesn't require contact precautions for prevention of spread among individuals. Treatment primarily involves antibiotics and sometimes surgical drainage, but it doesn't necessitate isolation precautions.

Choice D Reason:

Maintain a patent intravenous catheter: Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for osteomyelitis, and they are usually administered intravenously for an extended period to effectively eradicate the infection. Maintaining a patent intravenous catheter ensures continuous access for medication administration.

Choice A Reason:

Acknowledge the family members' feelings of guilt. While it's important to validate the family's feelings and provide emotional support, assuming or acknowledging guilt without evidence could be harmful. Instead, the nurse should offer empathy and support without attributing blame.

Choice B Reason:

Discourage the parents from allowing siblings to view the body. The decision of whether siblings should view the body is personal and should be respected based on the family's beliefs and preferences. The nurse should offer guidance and support, allowing the family to make an informed decision.

Choice C Reason:

Avoid discussing details of the attempt to revive the infant. Discussing the attempt to revive the infant might help the family understand the medical interventions performed and the efforts made. However, it should be approached with sensitivity and based on the family's readiness to receive such information.

Choice D Reason:

Provide a follow-up phone call 1 week following the infant's death. Following up with the family after a week allows for ongoing support, assessment of their emotional well-being, and providing additional resources or guidance as needed during the grieving process.