A nurse is collecting data from a school-age child who has Cushing's syndrome.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale

Cleaning the eye with a moist cloth helps to gently remove any discharge or crust that has accumulated overnight. It’s essential for preventing further irritation and infection while also making the toddler more comfortable. The moist cloth ensures that the cleaning process is gentle and effective, reducing the risk of scratching the delicate tissues of the eye, which can worsen the condition or introduce more pathogens.

Choice B rationale

Removing secretions by wiping from the outer corner to the inner canthus is incorrect because it can potentially spread the infection to the uninfected eye. Proper technique involves wiping from the inner canthus outward to prevent cross-contamination and help clear the eye more effectively.

Choice C rationale

Applying eye ointment in the morning may not be as effective as applying it before bedtime. During the day, the child is more likely to rub their eyes, which can displace the ointment and reduce its effectiveness. Applying it at night allows for prolonged contact with the eye while the child is sleeping.

Choice D rationale

Keeping the eye covered with a compress is generally not recommended because it creates a warm, moist environment that can promote bacterial growth. It also prevents air circulation, which is necessary for the healing process and can make the eye more prone to infections.

Choice A rationale

Peanut allergies are typically lifelong, and it is uncommon for children to outgrow them. Research indicates that only about 20% of children with peanut allergies will outgrow them over time. Hence, it is important for the guardian to be prepared for managing the allergy throughout the child's life.

Choice B rationale

While it is essential for the child to avoid peanuts, advising against all types of nuts is not necessary unless the child has been diagnosed with allergies to other nuts as well. Cross-reactivity is possible, but it is not a given for all nut types.

Choice C rationale

An epinephrine auto-injector is a critical tool for managing severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in children with peanut allergies. Immediate administration of epinephrine can be life-saving, and carrying an auto-injector ensures that the child is prepared in case of accidental exposure to peanuts.

Choice D rationale

The severity of peanut allergies typically remains consistent over time, though the risk of severe reactions upon exposure persists. The focus should be on prevention and preparedness rather than expecting an increase in severity with prolonged exposure.