A nurse is preparing to collect a capillary blood specimen from the heel of a 4-month-old infant. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Shakiness is a common symptom of hypoglycemia. When blood glucose levels drop, the body may react with symptoms like trembling or shaking. This is because low blood sugar levels can trigger the release of adrenaline, leading to physical symptoms such as shakiness.
B. While decreased appetite can occur in various conditions, it is not a primary or specific manifestation of hypoglycemia. Typically, hypoglycemia causes symptoms related to the body’s response to low glucose levels, such as shakiness, sweating, or confusion, rather than a decrease in appetite.
C. Thirst is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood glucose levels), not hypoglycemia. When blood glucose levels are high, the body tries to get rid of the excess sugar through increased urination, leading to dehydration and increased thirst. This is not a typical sign of low blood sugar.
D. Increased capillary refill time is generally a sign of poor perfusion or dehydration and is not specific to hypoglycemia. In hypoglycemia, the capillary refill time is usually normal, though other signs such as shakiness, sweating, or irritability are more indicative of low blood sugar levels.

A. Pediculosis capitis, also known as head lice, is transmitted through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items such as hats or combs. It is not transmitted via respiratory droplets, so droplet precautions are not required. Standard precautions for lice, such as treating the infestation and avoiding close contact, are appropriate.
B. Viral conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is primarily spread through direct contact with the eye secretions or contaminated objects. While viral conjunctivitis can be spread via contact, it does not require droplet precautions. Instead, proper hand hygiene and contact precautions are important to prevent the spread of the infection.
C. Hepatitis A is transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route and not through respiratory droplets. Therefore, droplet precautions are not necessary. Standard precautions, including proper hand hygiene and safe food handling, are important for preventing the spread of hepatitis A.
D. Seasonal influenza (flu) is transmitted via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Droplet precautions are recommended for individuals with influenza to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining distance from others.