The nurse is providing discharge instructions to the caregiver of an infant with recurrent otitis media. Which statement made by the caregiver should the nurse recognize as needing additional education about minimizing subsequent infections?
Instill benzocaine otic drops regularly.
Avoid any smoking inside the house.
Give infant the full course of antibiotics.
Schedule visit for pneumococcal vaccine.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Instilling benzocaine otic drops regularly is not a recommended practice for preventing or treating otitis media. Benzocaine is a topical anesthetic that can temporarily relieve ear pain, but it does not address the underlying cause of the infection. Moreover, benzocaine can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or methemoglobinemia, a condition that reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The nurse should instruct the caregiver to avoid using benzocaine otic drops unless prescribed by a health care provider.
Choice B reason: Avoiding any smoking inside the house is a good practice for preventing otitis media. Smoking can irritate the respiratory tract and impair the function of the cilia, the hair-like structures that help clear mucus and bacteria from the middle ear. Smoking can also increase the risk of respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma, which are associated with otitis media. The nurse should praise the caregiver for avoiding smoking and encourage them to maintain a smoke-free environment for the infant.
Choice C reason: Giving the infant the full course of antibiotics is a necessary practice for treating otitis media. Antibiotics can help eliminate the bacteria that cause the infection and reduce the inflammation and pain in the middle ear. However, antibiotics should be used only when prescribed by a health care provider, and the caregiver should follow the instructions carefully. The nurse should remind the caregiver to give the infant the exact dose of antibiotics at the right time and for the entire duration of the treatment, even if the symptoms improve.
Choice D reason: Scheduling a visit for pneumococcal vaccine is a preventive measure for otitis media. Pneumococcal vaccine can protect the infant from the most common strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that causes otitis media and other serious infections. The vaccine is recommended for all children under 2 years of age, and it is given in four doses at 2, 4, 6, and 12 to 15 months of age. The nurse should verify the infant's immunization status and advise the caregiver to follow the recommended schedule for the pneumococcal vaccine.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Playing "peek-a-boo" is a normal behavior for a 6-month-old infant. It shows that the infant has developed object permanence, which is the understanding that objects and people still exist even when they are out of sight. This is a sign of cognitive development and social interaction.
Choice B reason: Turning head to locate sound is a normal behavior for a 6-month-old infant. It shows that the infant has developed auditory localization, which is the ability to identify the direction and distance of a sound source. This is a sign of sensory development and curiosity.
Choice C reason: Having doubled birth weight is a normal milestone for a 6-month-old infant. It shows that the infant has adequate growth and nutrition. The average birth weight for a full-term infant is about 3.4 kg (7.5 lb), and the average weight for a 6-month-old infant is about 6.8 kg (15 lb).
Choice D reason: Demonstrating startle reflex is an abnormal behavior for a 6-month-old infant. The startle reflex, also known as the Moro reflex, is an involuntary response to a sudden loud noise or movement. The infant will extend the arms and legs, arch the back, and then curl the arms and legs inward. This reflex is present at birth and usually disappears by 4 months of age. If the reflex persists beyond 6 months of age, it may indicate a neurological problem or developmental delay. The nurse should request further evaluation by the health care provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Enabling limited time for cell phone use is not the best intervention that the nurse can implement to support the client's psychosocial needs. While cell phone use can help the client stay connected with their peers and social media, it can also be a source of distraction and stress. The nurse should encourage the client to balance their cell phone use with other activities that promote their well-being.
Choice B reason: Providing an activity room to spend time with other adolescents is the best intervention that the nurse can implement to support the client's psychosocial needs. This intervention can help the client cope with the anxiety and isolation that may result from their condition and hospitalization. It can also provide an opportunity for the client to interact with other adolescents who have similar experiences and challenges, and to engage in fun and meaningful activities that enhance their self-esteem and mood.
Choice C reason: Delivering 3 meals and snacks each day upon request is not the best intervention that the nurse can implement to support the client's psychosocial needs. While it is important to maintain the client's nutrition and hydration, it is not enough to address their emotional and social needs. The nurse should also encourage the client to eat with other adolescents or family members when possible, and to express their preferences and concerns about their food.
Choice D reason: Allowing family and friends to be present during assessments is not the best intervention that the nurse can implement to support the client's psychosocial needs. While it is important to involve the client's family and friends in their care, it is not necessary to have them present during every assessment. The nurse should respect the client's privacy and autonomy, and ask for their consent before allowing others to observe or participate in their assessments. The nurse should also provide the client with opportunities to talk to their family and friends in a comfortable and confidential setting.
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