A nurse in a pediatric unit is caring for a group of clients. For which of the following diseases should the nurse implement droplet precautions?

A. Insert an indwelling catheter if the client has not voided in 3 hr: This task is within the LPN’s scope of practice, including sterile procedures such as catheterization. The RN retains the responsibility to evaluate the client’s overall status but may direct the LPN to insert a catheter under specific conditions.
B. Obtain the abdominal girth now and every 4 hr: This is a non-sterile, routine measurement and would be more appropriately assigned to assistive personnel rather than an LPN.
C. Assess and document the level of consciousness every hour: Assessment of neurological status requires RN-level clinical judgment, particularly in clients at risk for hepatic encephalopathy.
D. Measure the amount of gastric drainage every 2 hr: Although within an LPN’s scope, this task is repetitive and routine and may be more appropriate for assistive personnel under supervision.

A. Administer an antitoxin: There is no specific antitoxin available for anthrax. Treatment primarily involves antibiotics and supportive care.

B. Quarantine the client: Quarantine may not be necessary unless the client is confirmed to have an active infection or poses a risk of spreading the disease to others.

C. Monitor the client for a productive cough: While respiratory symptoms can occur in inhalation anthrax, monitoring for a productive cough alone may not be sufficient for management.

D. Begin prophylactic treatment with ciprofloxacin: Prophylactic antibiotic treatment with ciprofloxacin or doxycycline is recommended following exposure to anthrax to prevent the development of the disease.