Pancreatic enzymes are administered to the child with cystic fibrosis. What information should be included in patient education concerning the administration of these enzymes?
Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible.
Pancreatic enzymes can be swallowed whole or sprinkled on a small amount of food taken at the beginning of a meal.
Do not administer pancreatic enzymes if the child is receiving antibiotics.
Decrease the dose of pancreatic enzymes if the child is having frequent, bulky stools.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible.
Choice A rationale:
Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible. This is the correct choice. When educating the parents and child with cystic fibrosis about the administration of pancreatic enzymes, it's important to emphasize that these enzymes should be given between meals whenever feasible. Administering them between meals, when the stomach is less acidic and less likely to release the enzymes prematurely, ensures optimal digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. This approach aligns with the physiological need to supplement pancreatic enzyme function due to the inadequate natural enzyme production in cystic fibrosis.
Choice B rationale:
Pancreatic enzymes can be swallowed whole or sprinkled on a small amount of food taken at the beginning of a meal. This choice is a valid option for administering pancreatic enzymes. While it's true that the enzymes can be taken either by swallowing the capsules whole or by opening them and sprinkling the contents on a small amount of food at the start of a meal, this method can vary based on individual preferences and abilities. However, the primary focus should be on timing (between meals) to achieve the best enzymatic action.
Choice C rationale:
Do not administer pancreatic enzymes if the child is receiving antibiotics. This statement is not accurate. There is no general contraindication to administering pancreatic enzymes while a child is on antibiotics. However, it's important for the healthcare provider to be aware of all the medications the child is taking to ensure there are no potential drug interactions or effects on absorption. Always consult with the healthcare team before adjusting the administration of any medication.
Choice D rationale:
Decrease the dose of pancreatic enzymes if the child is having frequent, bulky stools. This statement is not consistent with typical practice. If a child is experiencing frequent, bulky stools, it may actually indicate that the pancreatic enzyme dosage needs adjustment (increasing the dose rather than decreasing). Bulky stools can suggest poor digestion and absorption, which might require more enzymes to properly break down nutrients. Dosage adjustments should always be made under the guidance of the healthcare provider based on factors such as stool consistency, weight gain, and nutritional status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice E. Board games.
Choice A rationale:
Computer games might not be the best choice for a child with osteomyelitis. These games involve prolonged screen time and limited physical movement, which could potentially hinder the child's recovery.
Choice B rationale:
Paper and paints involve a level of physical activity that might not be suitable for a child with osteomyelitis. The child's movement might be restricted due to the condition, and activities that require fine motor skills might not be comfortable for them.
Choice C rationale:
Jack-in-the-box involves sudden surprises and might startle the child, which could be detrimental to their recovery. Children with osteomyelitis might be dealing with pain and discomfort, so it's important to avoid activities that could cause unnecessary distress.
Choice D rationale:
Stuffed animals might be a comforting option for the child. However, the child might also experience pain or discomfort when handling stuffed animals due to their condition. It's better to choose activities that don't involve physical contact that could potentially exacerbate the child's symptoms.
Choice E rationale:
Board games are a suitable choice for a child with osteomyelitis. They provide mental stimulation and entertainment without requiring excessive physical activity. Board games also promote social interaction if played with others, which is important for the child's emotional well-being during their hospital stay.

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