A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who is postoperative following a myringotomy. Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to determine the infant's pain level?

Choice A reason: wrong because applying cool compresses for 20 minutes every hour is not typically recommended.While cool compresses can help reduce joint swelling and pain, they are usually recommended to be applied for short periods and not as frequently as every hour

Choice B reason: wrong because while rest is important, there is no specific recommendation for a 45-minute nap daily.Adequate rest should be balanced with physical activity, which is essential for maintaining joint function and muscle strength

Choice C reason: wrong because allowing the child to stay at home on days when her joints are painful may lead to prolonged inactivity, which can worsen joint stiffness and reduce muscle strength.It’s important to encourage regular movement and activity as tolerated

Choice D reason: This is correct because prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation in conditions like juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and an alternate-day schedule can be effective in managing symptoms while minimizing side effects

Choice A: This instruction is correct, as iron supplements can cause a change in the color and consistency of stools, making them dark, green, or black. This is not a sign of bleeding or infection, but a normal side effect of iron therapy. The parents should be informed of this possibility and reassured that it is harmless.

Choice B: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at bedtime, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.

Choice C: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be given with milk, as milk contains calcium, which can interfere with iron absorption and reduce its effectiveness. The parents should be instructed to avoid giving milk or other dairy products within two hours of the medication.

Choice D: This instruction is incorrect, as iron supplements should not be administered at mealtimes, but rather one hour before or two hours after meals. This is because iron absorption is reduced by food, especially dairy products, antacids, or calcium supplements. The parents should be instructed to give the medication on an empty stomach or with a small amount of food if it causes nausea.