In caring for a child with nephrotic syndrome, which nursing intervention is most important?

Choice A rationale

Instructing the student to avoid all physical activity is not the priority intervention. While reducing friction and sweating can be beneficial, completely ceasing activity may not be necessary with appropriate treatment and hygiene measures. The rash is likely a fungal infection, not exacerbated by moderate activity if properly managed.

Choice B rationale

Advising the student to apply an over-the-counter topical antifungal cream is the most appropriate initial intervention. The presentation of a well-demarcated, erythematous, scaly rash in the groin, sparing the scrotum and penis, in a wrestler wearing tight athletic gear strongly suggests tinea cruris, a fungal infection. Topical antifungals are the first-line treatment for this condition.

Choice C rationale

Referring the student for oral antibiotic therapy is not indicated at this stage. The clinical presentation is highly suggestive of a fungal infection, for which antibiotics are ineffective. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, which typically present with different characteristics such as pus or systemic symptoms.

Choice D rationale

Recommending a topical corticosteroid is not the priority. While corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and itching, they do not treat the underlying fungal infection and can sometimes worsen it by suppressing the local immune response. Antifungal treatment should be initiated first to address the cause of the rash.

Choice A rationale

Myoclonic seizures are characterized by brief, sudden, involuntary muscle jerks or twitches. These movements are typically not associated with a complete loss of postural tone leading to a fall. The child's presentation of suddenly dropping to the floor without warning indicates a loss of muscle strength.

Choice B rationale

Atonic seizures, also known as drop attacks, involve a sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the individual to fall abruptly. This loss of tone can be localized or generalized, affecting the entire body, which aligns with the description of the child suddenly dropping to the floor.

Choice C rationale

Absence seizures are characterized by brief lapses of consciousness, often appearing as a staring spell. Individuals usually do not fall during an absence seizure; instead, they may have subtle motor movements like eye blinking or lip smacking.

Choice D rationale

Tonic seizures involve a sudden increase in muscle tone, causing stiffening of the body, arms, or legs. While a person might fall due to the rigidity, the primary characteristic is muscle stiffening, not a sudden loss of tone.