The nurse notes documentation that a child with meningitis is exhibiting a positive Kernig's sign. Which observation is a characteristic of this sign?

D. If the tympanostomy tubes fall out, the parent should contact the healthcare clinic or the healthcare provider who performed the procedure. They can provide guidance on whether the child needs to be seen for an evaluation and potential replacement of the tubes. Reporting the situation allows for appropriate follow-up and management by the healthcare team.

A. Tympanostomy tubes are small tubes inserted into the eardrums to help drain fluid from the middle ear and prevent recurrent ear infections. While they are designed to stay in place for a certain period, it is possible for them to fall out prematurely.

B. It's important for the parent to seek medical advice if the tubes fall out but it may not always require an immediate visit to the emergency department. However, if the child experiences severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection after the tubes fall out, seeking urgent medical attention may be warranted.

C. Only a healthcare provider should insert or reinsert tympanostomy tubes. Attempting to reinsert the tubes at home without proper training and equipment could cause injury or damage to the ear.

A. Wheezing. Cystic fibrosis can cause airway obstruction due to thickened mucus, leading to wheezing and difficulty breathing, especially during respiratory infections or exacerbations.

B. A barrel-shaped chest is often seen in advanced stages of cystic fibrosis. It results from hyperinflation of the lungs due to air trapping, chronic lung disease, and repeated respiratory infections. The chest appears rounded and enlarged, similar to the shape of a barrel.

D. Clubbing of fingers and toes is a common finding in cystic fibrosis. It is caused by chronic hypoxia and inadequate oxygenation of tissues, leading to changes in the nail beds and fingertips. Clubbing typically develops over time in individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, including cystic fibrosis.

C. Thin, watery mucous is not expected in cystic fibrosis. Instead, cystic fibrosis is characterized by thick, sticky mucus due to dysfunction of the exocrine glands, leading to blockages in the airways, pancreas, and other organs.

E. Rapid growth spurts are not typically associated with cystic fibrosis. In fact, children with cystic fibrosis may experience growth failure or delayed growth due to malabsorption of nutrients, chronic illness, and increased energy expenditure.