An adolescent client with a sore throat is diagnosed with infectious mononucleosis. Which comment by the caregiver would alert the nurse that additional instruction is necessary?

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11ecbb05_cad6_86d7_b433_195fe06f15c9_MD0009_00 Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is typically seen in adolescence from the sharing of drinks, kissing, or other direct exposure to saliva. Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, sore throat, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and swollen lymph nodes. Antibiotic treatment is inappropriate for a viral infection. Inadvertent intake of antibiotics (amoxicillin) can cause a rash. Treatment for mononucleosis is management of symptoms and includes hydration, rest, control of pain, and reducing fever as necessary. Sore throat is treated with saline gargles or anesthetic troches. Complications include airway obstruction (eg, stridor, difficult breathing) from swollen lymph nodes around the neck and severe abdominal pain (splenic rupture). These should be reported to the health care provider (HCP) immediately. (Option B) Ibuprofen or acetaminophen is appropriate treatment to control pain and manage fever in the child with mononucleosis. Aspirin should be avoided in children due to the risk of Reye syndrome. (Option C) Fatigue is a symptom of mononucleosis. Rest is very important in the care of a client with mononucleosis. (Option D) Mononucleosis may cause splenomegaly or hepatomegaly. Contact sports such as soccer should be avoided to prevent injury to the spleen or liver. Educational objective: Treatment for mononucleosis is largely symptomatic. It includes rest, hydration, pain control for sore throat, and fever reduction. Clients should avoid contact sports such as soccer to prevent injury to the spleen or liver. Breathing difficulty or abdominal pain should be reported to the HCP.

An Adolescent Client with a Sore Throat Is Diagnosed with Infectious