When measuring a 6-month-old baby in the hospital for seizures, the nurse obtains a head circumference that is up 1 cm from the last measurement one week ago. The nurse re-measures and gets the same number What is the best next step?

A) Place a tongue depressor in the client's mouth:

Incorrect. Placing a tongue depressor in the client's mouth is not recommended during a seizure. Doing so can lead to injury, as the child may bite down on the depressor and cause harm to their teeth or mouth.

B) Restrain the client:

Incorrect. Restraining a person during a seizure can be extremely dangerous. It can lead to physical harm to both the person experiencing the seizure and the person trying to restrain them. Restraining can increase the risk of fractures, dislocations, and other injuries.

C) Assess the client's airway patency:

Correct. Assessing the client's airway patency is essential during a seizure. The nurse should ensure that the child's airway is clear and open to maintain proper breathing. This involves observing for any obstruction or difficulty in breathing and taking appropriate measures to keep the airway open.

D) Remove objects from the client's bed:

Correct. Removing objects from the client's bed is a necessary action to prevent injury during a seizure. Objects on the bed can pose a risk of harm to the child if they were to strike them during the seizure. Creating a safe environment by removing potential hazards is important.

E) Place the client in a side-lying position:

Correct. Placing the client in a side-lying position is recommended during a seizure. This position helps prevent aspiration and maintains a clear airway. It also reduces the risk of choking and allows any fluids to drain from the mouth, minimizing the risk of choking.

In summary:

Choice A is incorrect because placing a tongue depressor can cause injury.

Choice B is incorrect because restraining can lead to harm.

Choice C is correct because assessing the airway ensures proper breathing.

Choice D is correct because removing objects reduces the risk of injury.

Choice E is correct because placing the client in a side-lying position helps maintain a clear airway and prevents aspiration.

A) Vaccinations to prevent pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B meningitis are available.

Explanation: This statement is true. Vaccinations to prevent certain types of bacterial meningitis are available. Pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccines are included in routine childhood immunization schedules to protect against the bacteria that can cause meningitis and other serious infections. These vaccines have significantly reduced the incidence of bacterial meningitis in infants and children.

B) Often a genetic predisposition to meningitis is found.

Explanation: This statement is generally false. While there may be some genetic factors that influence susceptibility to infections, including meningitis, genetic predisposition is not a primary consideration when discussing the risk of meningitis. Meningitis is more commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections, and genetic predisposition is not a significant factor in its occurrence.

C) Meningitis rarely occurs during infancy.

Explanation: This statement is false. Meningitis can occur in infants, including newborns. In fact, infants are one of the age groups at higher risk for meningitis due to their underdeveloped immune systems and susceptibility to infections. Bacterial meningitis, in particular, can be severe and life-threatening in infants.

D) Vaccination to prevent all types of meningitis is now available.

Explanation: This statement is not entirely accurate. While vaccinations are available to prevent certain types of bacterial meningitis (such as pneumococcal and Hib meningitis), there is no single vaccine that can prevent all types of meningitis. Meningitis can be caused by various bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, and the vaccines target specific ones. It's important for caregivers to ensure that their infants receive recommended vaccines to protect against the most common causes of meningitis.