A nurse is discussing risk factors for child maltreatment with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following examples should the nurse include?

Rationale:

A. A child who was conceived by in vitro fertilization: Children conceived through IVF are typically highly desired and planned for, and families may invest significant emotional and financial resources into their care. This background generally reduces rather than increases the risk of maltreatment.

B. A toddler who has atopic dermatitis: Although chronic conditions can be stressful for caregivers, atopic dermatitis is relatively common and manageable. It does not significantly increase the risk of child abuse or neglect compared to more severe or demanding conditions.

C. An only child: Being an only child does not inherently increase the risk for maltreatment. Risk factors for abuse are more closely associated with caregiver stress, socioeconomic status, substance use, and the presence of physical or cognitive impairments in the child.

D. A school-age child who has cerebral palsy: Children with disabilities like cerebral palsy are at higher risk for maltreatment due to the physical, emotional, and financial stress their care may place on caregivers. These children often require more supervision and support, which can lead to frustration or neglect in high-risk environments.

Rationale:

A. Swelling of the lips: Swelling of the lips can be an early sign of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis because it rapidly reduces airway swelling, improves breathing, and supports blood pressure by constricting blood vessels.

B. Nausea: While nausea may occur during an allergic reaction, it is not a primary life-threatening symptom addressed by epinephrine. Epinephrine targets cardiovascular and respiratory symptoms more directly, not gastrointestinal discomfort.

C. Hand tremors: Tremors are actually a potential side effect of epinephrine due to its stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. The medication is not intended to treat tremors and may even cause or worsen them temporarily.

D. Hyperglycemia: Epinephrine can increase blood glucose levels as a side effect, but it is not prescribed to treat or manage hyperglycemia. Managing blood glucose is not part of the therapeutic purpose of this emergency medication.