A nurse is planning care for a 4-year-old child who requires airborne precautions. Which of the following activities should the nurse plan for the child?

The correct answer is a. Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and d. Varicella (VAR).

Choice A reason:

Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR): The MMR vaccine is recommended for children at 12-15 months of age. It protects against three serious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. The first dose is typically given at 12-15 months, with a second dose at 4-6 years. Measles can cause severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Mumps can lead to meningitis and hearing loss, while rubella can cause congenital rubella syndrome in pregnant women. Administering the MMR vaccine at the recommended age ensures that the child is protected from these potentially severe diseases.

Choice B reason:

Rotavirus (RV): This vaccine is given to infants at 2, 4, and possibly 6 months of age. It is not typically administered to a 1-year-old child as the series should be completed by 8 months. Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea and dehydration in infants and young children. The vaccine is given orally and is highly effective in preventing rotavirus gastroenteritis. However, since the vaccine series is completed by 8 months, it is not appropriate for a 1-year-old child.

Choice C reason:

Human papillomavirus (HPV4): The HPV vaccine is recommended starting at 11-12 years of age. It is not suitable for a 1-year-old child. HPV is a common virus that can lead to certain types of cancers, including cervical cancer. The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, which is why it is recommended for preteens. Administering the HPV vaccine to a 1-year-old would not be appropriate as it is not within the recommended age range.

Choice D reason:

Varicella (VAR): The VAR vaccine is recommended for children at 12-15 months of age to protect against chickenpox. A second dose is given at 4-6 years. Chickenpox can cause an itchy rash, fever, and tiredness. In some cases, it can lead to severe skin infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis. Vaccinating at the recommended age ensures that the child is protected from these complications. The first dose at 12-15 months is crucial for building immunity against the varicella virus.

Choice E reason:

Diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis (DTaP): The DTaP vaccine is given in a series of five doses at 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years. The 4th dose is given at 15-18 months, not at 1 year. DTaP protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, which can cause breathing problems and heart failure; tetanus, which causes painful muscle stiffness; and pertussis (whooping cough), which can lead to severe coughing spells and pneumonia. The timing of the doses is crucial for ensuring effective immunity, and the 1-year mark is not one of the recommended times for the DTaP vaccine.

Choice A: This instruction is not correct, as the child should avoid taking a tub bath for the first 3 days after a cardiac catheterization, which is a procedure that involves inserting a thin tube into a blood vessel and advancing it to the heart to diagnose or treat heart problems. Taking a tub bath can increase the risk of infection or bleeding at the insertion site, which is usually in the groin or arm. The child should take a shower instead and keep the insertion site clean and dry.

Choice B: This instruction is correct, as the child may experience some discomfort or soreness at the insertion site after a cardiac catheterization. Giving the child acetaminophen can help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation. The child should avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Choice C: This instruction is not correct, as the child does not need to stay home for 1 week after a cardiac catheterization unless there are complications or specific instructions from the provider. The child can resume normal activities within 2 to 3 days after the procedure, as long as they avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or contact sports.

Choice D: This instruction is not correct, as the child does not need to limit their diet to clear liquids for the first 24 hours after a cardiac catheterization unless there are complications or specific instructions from the provider. The child can resume their regular diet as soon as they feel hungry and drink plenty of fluids to flush out the contrast dye used during the procedure.