A nurse is caring for a child who has pertussis. The child's parent asks the nurse what the common name for this disease is. The nurse should
respond with which of the following common names?

Choice A reason: This is the most likely source of the child's infection. Rheumatic fever is a complication of an untreated or poorly treated streptococcal infection, such as strep throat or scarlet fever. It usually occurs 2 to 4 weeks after the initial infection and causes inflammation of the heart, joints, skin, and nervous system. The nurse should ask the parent if the sibling was tested and treated for strep throat, and if the child was exposed to the sibling.

Choice B reason: This is not a likely source of the child's infection. Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, not by streptococci. It is a highly contagious disease that causes a blister-like rash, itching, fever, and fatigue. It does not cause rheumatic fever, but it can lead to other complications, such as bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, or encephalitis.

Choice C reason: This is not a likely source of the child's infection. Fifth disease is caused by the parvovirus B19, not by streptococci. It is a mild illness that causes a distinctive red rash on the face, body, and limbs, as well as fever, headache, and sore throat. It does not cause rheumatic fever, but it can affect the production of red blood cells and cause anemia in some people.

Choice D reason: This is not a likely source of the child's infection. Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by various factors, such as bacteria, viruses, medications, alcohol, or stress. It is not caused by streptococci, nor does it cause rheumatic fever. It can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Choice A reason: Hypovolemia is a condition of low blood volume due to fluid loss from the burn injury. It can cause decreased urine output, hypotension, tachycardia, and poor skin turgor. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, fluid intake and output, and weight. The nurse should administer lactated Ringer's solution to maintain urine output of 30 ml/hr.

Choice B reason: Hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood due to cellular damage from the burn injury. It can cause peaked T waves, dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and cardiac arrest. The nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels, electrocardiogram, and cardiac status. The nurse should avoid administering potassium-containing fluids or medications.

Choice C reason: Hypocalcemia is a condition of low calcium levels in the blood due to fluid shifts from the burn injury. It can cause positive Chvostek's sign, tetany, seizures, and hypotension. The nurse should monitor the client's serum calcium levels, neurological status, and blood pressure. The nurse should administer calcium supplements as prescribed.

Choice D reason: Hypernatremia is a condition of high sodium levels in the blood due to fluid loss from the burn injury. It can cause dry mucous membranes, thirst, agitation, and seizures. The nurse should monitor the client's serum sodium levels, hydration status, and mental status. The nurse should administer hypotonic fluids as prescribed.