A nurse is caring for a child who has pertussis. The child's parent asks the nurse what the common name for this disease is. The nurse should respond with which of the following common names?

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.

Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because the radial artery is not an ideal site to assess the heart rate in an infant. The radial artery is located on the thumb side of the wrist, and it can be palpated by placing two fingers over it. It may be used for adults or older children who have a strong pulse, but it may be difficult to locate or feel in an infant who has a small or weak pulse.

Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because the carotid artery is not an ideal site to assess the heart rate in an infant. The carotid artery is located on either side of the neck, and it can be palpated by placing two fingers over it. It may be used for adults or older children who have a cardiac arrest or shock, but it may be risky to use in an infant who has a fragile neck or airway.

Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because the brachial artery is not an ideal site to assess the heart rate in an infant. The brachial artery is located on the inner side of the upper arm, and it can be palpated by placing two fingers over it. It may be used for infants or young children who have a blood pressure measurement, but it may be uncomfortable or inaccurate to use for a heart rate assessment.

Choice D reason: This choice is correct because the apex of the heart is an ideal site to assess the heart rate in an infant. The apex of the heart is located at the fifth intercostal space on the left midclavicular line, and it can be auscultated by placing a stethoscope over it. It may be used for infants or young children who have a regular and strong heartbeat, and it may provide the most accurate measurement of the heart rate.