A client’s child has been diagnosed with RSV infection.
The client is worried about the child’s persistent cough and decreased appetite.
The nurse explains that in children younger than age 3, RSV infection can progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, causing more severe respiratory distress.
What statement should the nurse make to reassure the client about the management of these potential complications?
“We will monitor your child closely for any signs of respiratory distress.”.
“We will ensure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids.”.
“We will give your child medication to reduce his fever.”.
“We will provide your child with a special diet to improve his appetite.”..
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should reassure the client by stating, “We will monitor your child closely for any signs of respiratory distress.”.
This is the appropriate response because close monitoring is crucial in children with RSV infection, especially those younger than age 3.
Respiratory distress can rapidly progress in this age group, and early detection is essential for timely intervention.
Monitoring the child's respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and other respiratory symptoms allows healthcare providers to assess the severity of the condition and provide appropriate interventions promptly.
Choice B rationale:
While ensuring rest and fluids is generally good advice for managing various illnesses, it does not specifically address the client’s concerns about the potential complications of RSV infection, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia leading to respiratory distress.
Choice C rationale:
Administering medication to reduce fever is not the most pertinent information in this scenario.
The primary concern for the client is the progression of RSV infection to severe respiratory distress, not fever reduction.
Choice D rationale:
Providing a special diet to improve appetite does not address the client’s concerns about the respiratory complications associated with RSV infection.
Respiratory distress is the main worry in this situation, and dietary changes are not the appropriate focus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Isolating the child from other children or adults with respiratory infections is crucial in preventing the spread of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
RSV is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets.
By isolating the infected child, the nurse helps prevent the transmission of the virus to others.
Choice B rationale:
Using contact precautions such as gown and gloves when caring for the child is essential to prevent the spread of RSV.
Direct contact with respiratory secretions can easily lead to transmission.
Wearing protective gear like gowns and gloves creates a barrier, reducing the risk of contamination and spread.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging frequent hand hygiene is a fundamental preventive measure.
RSV can survive on surfaces for several hours, so regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help eliminate the virus from hands, reducing the risk of infection.
Choice E rationale:
Avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke is important because smoke irritates the respiratory tract, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections like RSV.
Secondhand smoke can also worsen symptoms in infected individuals and increase the severity of the illness.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing siblings to share toys and utensils with the infected child is not recommended.
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
Sharing toys and utensils can facilitate the transmission of the virus to other children, increasing the risk of infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should educate the client about the expected course of RSV infection in infants.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) infection can lead to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in children under the age of 3.
Symptoms like wheezing and tachypnea are indicative of respiratory distress.
Educating the client about the expected duration of the symptoms is crucial.
The client needs to understand that the baby's symptoms may last for about 10 days, and this is a common timeframe for the resolution of RSV infection in infants.
This information helps manage the client's expectations and reduces anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
While fever can be a sign of infection, it is not the most pertinent symptom to monitor in this case.
The primary concern is the respiratory distress caused by bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
While fever might indicate worsening infection, it is not the most relevant information in this context.
Choice C rationale:
Over-the-counter cold medicine is generally not recommended for infants and young children due to the risk of side effects.
Moreover, these medications may not be effective in managing the specific symptoms caused by RSV infection.
Advising the client to administer such medication could be harmful and is not an appropriate response.
Choice D rationale:
While it is essential to prevent the spread of RSV infection, especially among siblings, this choice does not address the client's understanding of the infant's condition.
The primary concern here is the client's grasp of the infant's symptoms and the expected course of the illness, which is best addressed by choice A.
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