A preschool-age child who attends day care has a 2-day history of matted eyelids in the morning and burning and itching of the eyes. The primary care pediatric nurse practitioner notes yellow-green purulent discharge from both eyes, conjunctival erythema, and mild URI symptoms. Which action is correct?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of yellow-green purulent discharge and conjunctival erythema indicate bacterial conjunctivitis. Topical antibiotic drops are the appropriate treatment for this condition. Culturing the discharge may be unnecessary in uncomplicated cases. Observation for several days may lead to worsening of symptoms and potential spread of infection. Oral antibiotics may be used in severe cases or if the infection has spread beyond the eye, but they are not the first-line treatment for uncomplicated bacterial conjunctivitis.

A Preschool-Age Child Who Attends Day Care Has a 2-Day