A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a group of adolescents about safety. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Administering an oral corticosteroid is not the first action the nurse should take. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and itching caused by poison ivy. However, they are usually prescribed if the symptoms are severe or if the rash covers a large area of the body. It’s important to note that corticosteroids can have side effects, especially when used for a long time, so they should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale: Applying calamine lotion to the affected area can help soothe the skin and relieve itching caused by poison ivy. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. The first step is to remove the oil from the skin that causes the allergic reaction. Calamine lotion can be applied after the area has been thoroughly washed.

Choice C rationale: Instructing the parent to give the child an oatmeal bath twice daily can help soothe the skin and relieve itching. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. Similar to calamine lotion, an oatmeal bath can be beneficial after the area has been thoroughly washed to remove the oil from the skin.

Choice D rationale: The first action the nurse should take when caring for a child exposed to poison ivy is to flush the area with cold, running water. This helps to remove the oil (urushiol) from the skin that causes the allergic reaction. It’s important to do this as soon as possible after exposure to help prevent the spread of the oil to other areas of the body or to other people. After flushing the area, the nurse can then apply calamine lotion or recommend an oatmeal bath to help soothe the skin and relieve itching.

Choice A rationale:
After a tonic-clonic seizure, it's common for the person to inadvertently bite their tongue, cheeks, or lips during the convulsive movements. Checking the mouth for any signs of bleeding or injuries is essential to ensure the person's safety and provide appropriate care.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the child's head in a hyperextended position is not recommended after a seizure. In fact, it's important to keep the person's head and neck in a neutral position to prevent potential injury. Hyperextending the neck could lead to strain or other complications.
Choice C rationale:
Giving the child a drink of water immediately after a seizure is not necessary and might be unsafe. The child may still be disoriented or have difficulty swallowing immediately after the seizure. It's best to ensure the child's safety and monitor their condition before offering any fluids.
Choice D rationale:
Administering naloxone intramuscularly is not indicated for a tonic-clonic seizure. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose. Seizures have a different underlying cause, and administering naloxone would not be effective or appropriate in this context.