Upon completion of a 14-day antibiotic treatment for bacterial meningitis in an infant, the nurse prepares the family for discharge.
Which information should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale

A weight gain of 2 pounds (0.91 kg) in a 34-week gestation multigravida is generally considered normal. During the third trimester, it is typical for a pregnant woman to gain around 0.5 to 1 pound per week. This weight gain helps support the growing fetus and prepare the mother's body for labor and breastfeeding. However, sudden or excessive weight gain could indicate fluid retention or preeclampsia, but a 2-pound gain alone is not necessarily a concern.

Choice B rationale

1+ edema on the lower extremities is a common finding during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. It is usually due to increased blood volume and pressure on the pelvic veins from the growing uterus, which can slow the return of blood from the legs. While some degree of edema is normal, particularly in the ankles and feet, it is important to monitor for sudden or severe swelling, which could be a sign of preeclampsia.

Choice C rationale

A fundal height of 30 cm at 34 weeks gestation is concerning because it is less than the expected measurement. Fundal height typically corresponds to gestational age in centimeters (±2 cm). Therefore, at 34 weeks, the expected fundal height would be between 32 and 36 cm. A smaller fundal height could indicate intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), oligohydramnios, or other fetal development issues, which require further evaluation by the healthcare provider.

Choice D rationale

A fetal heart rate (FHR) of 110 beats per minute (bpm) is within the normal range for a fetus. The normal FHR typically ranges from 110 to 160 bpm. Although 110 bpm is on the lower end of the normal range, it is still considered acceptable. Significant deviations from the normal range, either too low (bradycardia) or too high (tachycardia), could indicate fetal distress and require immediate attention.

Choice A rationale

Benzocaine otic drops are used for pain relief and do not address the root cause of infections. Regular use without medical advice can lead to masking of symptoms and possibly delay appropriate treatment. The focus should be on preventing infections through other methods like vaccinations and avoiding irritants.

Choice B rationale

Scheduling a visit for the pneumococcal vaccine is appropriate as it can help protect against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common cause of otitis media. Vaccinations are a preventive measure to reduce the frequency and severity of infections in infants and children.

Choice C rationale

Giving the infant the full course of antibiotics is crucial in treating and preventing recurrent infections. Incomplete antibiotic courses can lead to bacterial resistance and recurrence of infections. Caregivers must be educated on the importance of adhering to the prescribed treatment plan.

Choice D rationale

Avoiding smoking inside the house is essential as secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor for otitis media. Smoke can irritate the respiratory system and Eustachian tubes, making infants more susceptible to infections. Caregivers should be advised to maintain a smoke-free environment to protect the child's health.