A nurse is discussing pertussis with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse include?

A. Prophylactic treatment is offered to those who have been in close contact with an infected child in the past 60 days. While prophylactic antibiotics (such as azithromycin) are recommended for close contacts of an infected person, the timeframe for exposure is within the past 21 days, not 60 days.

B. Severe, prolonged episodes of coughing is a characteristic manifestation of this infection. Pertussis (whooping cough) is marked by severe coughing fits followed by a "whooping" sound during inhalation. The cough is paroxysmal (sudden and violent), prolonged, and can lead to vomiting, exhaustion, or respiratory distress.

C. A painful, stiff neck is a common manifestation of this infection. A stiff neck (nuchal rigidity) is more commonly associated with meningitis, not pertussis. Pertussis primarily affects the respiratory system, causing a severe cough.

D. An antiviral medication is administered to treat this infection. Pertussis is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, so it is treated with antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin, or erythromycin), not antivirals.

A. Liver enzymes should be checked before starting. Some anticonvulsants, such as valproic acid and carbamazepine, can affect liver function. Baseline liver enzyme testing is recommended before starting therapy to monitor for potential hepatotoxicity.

B. Consult the prescriber for any dose adjustments. Anticonvulsants require careful dose titration based on the child's response, side effects, and therapeutic drug levels. The prescriber should be consulted for any necessary adjustments.

C. Do not take with anti-anxiety medications. While caution is needed when combining CNS depressants, anticonvulsants can sometimes be used alongside anti-anxiety medications if prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider. The statement is too restrictive and does not apply universally.

D. Do not take the medication longer than a week. This is incorrect. Anticonvulsants prescribed for chronic pain management may be used for extended periods under medical supervision. Discontinuing the medication too soon can reduce effectiveness and may require a gradual taper.

E. An increased risk of suicide is associated with this medication. Certain anticonvulsants, including gabapentin, pregabalin, and carbamazepine, carry an FDA warning for an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Monitoring for mood changes, depression, or suicidal ideation is important.