A nurse is providing teaching to the parent of an infant about car seat safety. Which of the following statements by the parent indicate an understanding of the teaching?

A. Report of diplopia

Diplopia, or double vision, can be a symptom of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to its effects on cranial nerve function. Therefore, it is a manifestation that the nurse should recognize as indicating the presence of increased ICP.

B. Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is not typically associated with increased ICP. Instead, manifestations of increased ICP often include altered level of consciousness, lethargy, or even coma.

C. Nuchal rigidity

Nuchal rigidity, or stiffness in the neck, is not a direct manifestation of increased ICP. It is more commonly associated with meningitis or other conditions affecting the meninges.

D. Report of sore throat

A sore throat is not typically associated with increased ICP unless it is related to complications such as pharyngeal injury or infection.

A. Initiate antibiotic therapy for the child.

This is the priority action. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency, and prompt administration of antibiotics is crucial to treat the infection and prevent further complications. Therefore, the nurse should initiate antibiotic therapy as soon as possible after obtaining appropriate cultures.

B. Minimize the child's environmental stimuli.

While reducing environmental stimuli can help decrease the child's discomfort and prevent agitation, it is not the priority action when managing bacterial meningitis. Treating the underlying infection takes precedence to prevent serious complications such as neurological damage or septic shock.

C. Place the child in a side-lying position.

Positioning the child on their side may help prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs, but it is not the priority action in the initial management of bacterial meningitis. The child's positioning can be adjusted as needed once antibiotic therapy has been initiated.

D. Administer pain medication to the child.

Pain management is important for the child's comfort, but it is not the priority action when managing bacterial meningitis. The child's pain may be addressed once antibiotic therapy has been initiated and the child's condition has stabilized.