A nurse is caring for a preschooler who has brain tumor.
Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to the provider?

Choice B rationale

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a condition where the opening between the two major blood vessels leading from the heart fails to close after birth. In the womb, this opening, known as the ductus arteriosus, is a normal part of the baby’s circulatory system. It usually closes shortly after birth. If it remains open, it’s called a patent ductus arteriosus.

The correct answer is choiced. Encourage the adolescent to perform incentive spirometry to maintain lung capacity.

Choice A rationale: Avoiding influenza and pneumococcal vaccines for 24 months is not recommended. Vaccinations are crucial for preventing respiratory infections, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with muscular dystrophy due to their compromised respiratory function.

Choice B rationale: Initiating a referral for chest physiotherapy every 4 hours is excessive and impractical. While chest physiotherapy can be beneficial, it is typically recommended at a frequency that is manageable and tailored to the individual’s needs.

Choice C rationale: Recommending the adolescent use a wheelchair to prevent stress on the lower extremities is not ideal. Encouraging mobility and physical activity as tolerated is important to maintain muscle strength and function for as long as possible.

Choice D rationale: Encouraging the adolescent to perform incentive spirometry to maintain lung capacity is appropriate. Incentive spirometry helps improve lung function and prevent respiratory complications, which are common in individuals with muscular dystrophy.