A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute laryngotracheobronchitis and has been placed in a cool mist tent. Which of the following findings indicates that the treatment has been effective?

The correct answer is: A. Tugging on the affected ear lobe.

Choice A reason:

Tugging on the affected ear lobe is a common sign of discomfort in children with otitis media. This behavior indicates that the child is experiencing pain or pressure in the ear, which is a typical symptom of this condition. Children often cannot verbalize their discomfort, so they may tug or pull at their ears to express their pain.

Choice B reason:

Erythema and edema of the affected ear are more indicative of otitis externa (swimmer's ear) rather than otitis media. Otitis media involves inflammation and infection of the middle ear, which is not typically visible externally. The primary signs of otitis media are observed through otoscopic examination, showing a bulging or erythematous tympanic membrane.

Choice C reason:

Pain when manipulating the affected ear lobe is also more characteristic of otitis externa. In otitis media, the pain is usually deeper within the ear and not exacerbated by touching the outer ear. The pain in otitis media is due to the pressure and inflammation in the middle ear space.

Choice D reason:

Clear drainage from the affected ear is not typical of otitis media. If there is drainage, it is usually purulent (pus-like) and indicates a ruptured eardrum due to the infection. Clear drainage is more commonly associated with conditions like otitis externa or a perforated eardrum without infection.

Choice A reason: This choice is correct because providing a latex-free environment is an essential intervention for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Spina bifida is a congenital defect in which the spinal cord and its coverings do not close properly, resulting in a protrusion of the meninges (meningocele) or the meninges and spinal cord (myelomeningocele). Children who have spina bifida are at a high risk of developing a latex allergy, which can cause severe reactions such as anaphylaxis or death. Therefore, avoiding exposure to latex products such as gloves, catheters, balloons, or bandages is crucial to prevent complications.

Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because initiating contact precautions is not necessary for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Contact precautions are infection control measures that prevent the transmission of microorganisms that can be spread by direct or indirect contact with the client or their environment. They may be indicated for clients who have multidrug-resistant organisms, clostridium difficile, or scabies, but they are not required for clients who have spina bifida unless they have a concurrent infection.

Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because limiting visitors to immediate family members is not indicated for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. Limiting visitors may be indicated for clients who have immunosuppression, isolation, or terminal illness, but it may not be beneficial for clients who have spina bifida. Allowing visitors may provide emotional and social support for the client and their family, as long as they follow standard precautions and do not pose any risk of infection or injury.

Choice D reason: This choice is incorrect because maintaining the infant in the supine position is not an appropriate intervention for an infant who has spina bifida and is to undergo surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac.
Maintaining the infant in the supine position may cause pressure or trauma to the sac, which can lead to rupture, infection, or nerve damage. Therefore, positioning the infant in a prone or side-lying position with the hips flexed and knees abducted can help to protect the sac and prevent complications.