A nurse is collecting data from a child who has pertussis.
Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Bradycardia. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that primarily affects the blood's clotting ability. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a common side effect of heparin. Therefore, it is not a typical adverse effect to report in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Anorexia. Anorexia, or a loss of appetite, is not a common adverse effect of heparin. Heparin's primary mode of action is to prevent blood clot formation, and it does not directly affect appetite.

Choice C rationale:

Weight gain. Weight gain is not a typical adverse effect of heparin. Heparin's mechanism of action does not lead to changes in body weight. Weight gain could be related to other factors but is not directly associated with heparin administration.

Choice D rationale:

Epistaxis. Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, can be a sign of a bleeding disorder or an adverse effect of anticoagulant therapy like heparin. Heparin can increase the risk of bleeding, including nosebleeds, and should be monitored closely for this adverse effect. It is important to report any signs of excessive bleeding to the healthcare provider as they may need to adjust the dosage or monitor the patient more closely.

Choice A rationale:

Cleansing the skin with an antibacterial soap is not typically recommended for clients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) unless there is a specific medical indication for antibacterial soap. Using mild, non-irritating, hypoallergenic soap is usually preferred to avoid skin irritation in individuals with SLE.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer. Patting the skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing it helps to prevent excessive friction and irritation, which can be particularly important for individuals with SLE who may have sensitive skin. The client demonstrates an understanding of appropriate skin care by choosing this option.

Choice C rationale:

Using an astringent on the face is generally discouraged for individuals with SLE. Astringents can be harsh and may irritate the skin, which can exacerbate skin problems commonly associated with SLE. This statement indicates a misunderstanding of appropriate skin care.

Choice D rationale:

Limiting time in the tanning bed is advisable for anyone, as excessive exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancers. However, individuals with SLE are especially sensitive to UV radiation, and they should avoid tanning beds altogether. This statement indicates a lack of understanding of the specific needs of individuals with SLE regarding sun exposure.