A nurse is caring for a child who was admitted with suspected rheumatic fever. The provider prescribes an antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer. The parent asks the nurse about the purpose of the test. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"This test will indicate if your child has rheumatic fever."
"This test will confirm if your child had a recent streptococcal infection."
"This test will indicate if your child has a therapeutic blood level of an aminoglycoside."
"This test will confirm if your child has immunity to streptococcal bacteria."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: This test will not indicate if the child has rheumatic fever, as rheumatic fever is a complication of an untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal infection that affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain. Rheumatic fever is diagnosed based on clinical criteria, such as carditis, polyarthritis, chorea, erythema marginatum, and subcutaneous nodules.
Choice B: This test will confirm if the child had a recent streptococcal infection, as antistreptolysin O (ASO) is an antibody that the body produces in response to streptococcal bacteria. A high ASO titer indicates that the child was exposed to streptococcal bacteria within the past few weeks. A streptococcal infection can cause pharyngitis, tonsillitis, scarlet fever, or impetigo.
Choice C: This test will not indicate if the child has a therapeutic blood level of an aminoglycoside, as an aminoglycoside is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat serious bacterial infections. A therapeutic blood level of an aminoglycoside means that the drug is effective and safe in the body. A therapeutic blood level of an aminoglycoside is measured by a peak and trough level.
Choice D: This test will not confirm if the child has immunity to streptococcal bacteria, as immunity to streptococcal bacteria means that the body can resist or fight the infection. Immunity to streptococcal bacteria can be acquired by natural exposure or vaccination. Immunity to streptococcal bacteria is measured by an antibody titer or a skin test.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This statement is correct, as the mother should notify the doctor if the child's temperature is not controlled with acetaminophen, which is an antipyretic and analgesic medication that can lower fever and relieve pain. A high fever can increase the child's metabolic rate and insulin requirements, which can lead to hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis.
Choice B: This statement is incorrect, as the mother should check the child's blood sugar more frequently than two times every day, especially when the child is sick. An upper respiratory infection can cause inflammation and stress hormones, which can increase the child's blood sugar levels and insulin needs. The mother should monitor the child's blood sugar at least four times a day or more often if indicated by symptoms or ketone testing.
Choice C: This statement is correct, as the mother should encourage the child to drink half a cup of water or sugar-free fluids every 30 minutes, which can prevent dehydration and flush out excess glucose and ketones from the body. Dehydration can worsen hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis, which are serious complications of diabetes.
Choice D: This statement is correct, as the mother should report a change in the child's breathing or any signs of confusion, which can indicate respiratory distress or cerebral edema. Respiratory distress can occur due to hypoxia or acidosis, which can impair oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide elimination. Cerebral edema can occur due to fluid shifts or electrolyte imbalances, which can cause increased intracranial pressure and neurological impairment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Irregular respiratory rate is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be affected by many factors such as fever, infection, pain, or anxiety. An irregular respiratory rate can also indicate more severe dehydration or shock, which requires immediate intervention.
Choice B: Good skin integrity is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be maintained even in moderate dehydration. Good skin integrity does not reflect the fluid status of the body, as skin turgor and elasticity depend on other factors such as age, nutrition, and hydration.
Choice C: Blood pressure elevation is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be caused by other conditions such as stress, anxiety, pain, or hypertension. Blood pressure elevation can also indicate more severe dehydration or shock, which requires immediate intervention.
Choice D: Body weight is the most reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it reflects the fluid loss or gain of the body. A loss of 5% or more of body weight indicates mild dehydration in infants. Body weight should be measured daily and compared with the baseline weight to monitor the fluid status of the infant.
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