A nurse is caring for a child who was admitted with suspected rheumatic fever. The provider prescribes an antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer. The parent asks the nurse about the purpose of the test. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A: Skin cancer is a malignant growth of the skin cells, which can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation, genetic mutations, or immunosuppression. Skin cancer does not affect the mouth and does not cause a white, milky plaque. Skin cancer may cause changes in the color, shape, size, or texture of a mole or a skin lesion.

Choice B: Candidiasis or thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth, which can be caused by overgrowth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that normally lives in the body. Candidiasis or thrush can occur in people who have a weakened immune system, such as those who have a systemic disorder, take antibiotics, immunosuppressants, or corticosteroids, or have a smoking history. Candidiasis or thrush can cause soreness in the mouth and difficulty eating. Candidiasis or thrush can also cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice C: Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that affects the squamous cells, which are flat cells that form the outer layer of the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma can occur in areas that are exposed to sun damage, such as the face, ears, lips, or neck. Squamous cell carcinoma does not affect the mouth and does not cause a white, milky plaque. Squamous cell carcinoma may cause a red, scaly, crusty, or bleeding bump or patch on the skin.

Choice D: Herpes simplex is a viral infection that affects the skin and mucous membranes, such as the mouth, lips, genitals, or eyes. Herpes simplex is transmitted by direct contact with an infected person or object. Herpes simplex does not cause a white, milky plaque. Herpes simplex may cause painful blisters or ulcers that burst and form scabs.

Choice A: Nausea and vomiting are not common signs of hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level. Nausea and vomiting are more likely to occur with hyperglycemia, which is a high blood glucose level, or with diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening complication of diabetes.

Choice B: Sweating is not a common sign of hyperglycemia, but rather a sign of hypoglycemia. Sweating occurs as a result of the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which tries to raise the blood glucose level by releasing adrenaline and other hormones.

Choice C: The onset of low blood glucose usually occurs quickly, not slowly. Low blood glucose can be caused by taking too much insulin, skipping meals, exercising too much, or drinking alcohol. Low blood glucose can lead to confusion, seizures, coma, or death if not treated promptly.

Choice D: Feeling shaky is a common sign of hypoglycemia, as the body tries to cope with the lack of glucose as an energy source. Feeling shaky can also be accompanied by other signs such as hunger, nervousness, dizziness, or weakness.