A nurse is reinforcing teaching about home safety with the parent of an 8-month-old infant. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Rationale:

A. Constipation: Constipation is not a common adverse effect of cefazolin. While gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or nausea can occur with antibiotics, constipation is typically unrelated and does not require immediate reporting.

B. Elevated skin patches: Skin eruptions, including hives or elevated erythematous patches, may indicate an allergic reaction to cefazolin. Early recognition and reporting are critical to prevent progression to severe hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis.

C. Ringing in the ears: Ototoxicity is more commonly associated with aminoglycoside antibiotics, not cefazolin, which is a cephalosporin. Tinnitus would not be an expected adverse effect requiring urgent reporting in this context.

D. Depression: Cefazolin is not linked to mood changes or psychiatric effects. Monitoring for depression is unnecessary in this case, as it is unrelated to the medication’s known adverse effects.

The correct answer is a. Call EMS if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more.

Explanation:

When providing home care instructions for a child with a seizure disorder, it is important to educate the parents about appropriate actions during a seizure. Calling emergency medical services (EMS) if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more is crucial because it may indicate a condition called status epilepticus, which is a prolonged seizure or a series of seizures without full recovery of consciousness between them. Status epilepticus is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.

Option b, restraining the child at the onset of a seizure, is not recommended. Restraint can potentially cause harm to the child and increase the risk of injury. It is advised to create a safe environment by removing any nearby objects that could cause injury and placing a pillow or cushion under the child's head to prevent head injury.

Option c, offering the child a bubble bath every evening, is not specifically related to seizure management. Bathing routines can be continued as long as they are safe and supervised. However, it is important to ensure the child's safety during bathing, such as providing adequate supervision to prevent drowning or injury.

Option d, placing the child in a prone position during a seizure, is not recommended. Placing the child in a prone position (face down) during a seizure can obstruct the airway and increase the risk of respiratory complications. The child should be placed on their side, in a recovery position, to facilitate drainage of saliva or other fluids and prevent choking.

Overall, the most important instruction for the parents is to recognize the signs of prolonged seizure activity and to seek immediate medical assistance by calling EMS if a seizure lasts 5 minutes or more.