A patient is taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325 mg, 2 tablets PO every 6 hours. How many grams is the patient receiving in 24 hours?

(Number Only, do not type in gram or g with your answer)

The correct answer is choice C: Administering penicillin.

Choice A rationale:

Imposing strict bed rest for 4 to 6 weeks. This choice is not the most appropriate therapeutic management for rheumatic fever. While rest is important during the acute phase, strict bed rest for 4 to 6 weeks is excessive and could lead to physical deconditioning and psychological distress for the child.

Choice B rationale:

Administering corticosteroids if chorea develops. This choice is relevant to the management of rheumatic fever but is not the primary treatment. Chorea is a movement disorder that can occur as a complication of rheumatic fever. Corticosteroids may be used to manage chorea symptoms, but they are not the mainstay of treatment for rheumatic fever itself.

Choice C rationale:

Administering penicillin. This is the correct choice. Penicillin is the mainstay of treatment for rheumatic fever. It helps eradicate the group A streptococcal infection that triggers the inflammatory response leading to rheumatic fever. Penicillin is essential to prevent further complications such as rheumatic heart disease.

Choice D rationale:

Avoiding salicylates (aspirin). This choice is also relevant to the management of rheumatic fever. Salicylates, including aspirin, are used to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. However, in children with acute rheumatic fever, salicylates are contraindicated due to the risk of developing Reye's syndrome, a serious condition that affects the brain and liver.

Choice A rationale:

Increased appetite is a common side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids are known to affect various metabolic processes, and one of the effects is an increase in appetite. This can lead to weight gain, especially when the increased calorie intake is not balanced by physical activity.

Choice B rationale:

Fever is not a typical side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids are often used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, which can help in managing conditions like autoimmune diseases, allergies, and inflammatory disorders. Fever is not a direct result of corticosteroid administration.

Choice C rationale:

Weight loss is not a common side effect of corticosteroid therapy. In fact, corticosteroids are more likely to cause weight gain due to their influence on appetite, metabolism, and fluid retention.

Choice D rationale:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can indeed be a side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids can lead to sodium and water retention, which can contribute to increased blood pressure, particularly in individuals who are already at risk for hypertension. However, among the options provided, increased appetite is a more directly associated side effect of corticosteroid therapy.