A parent calls the after-hours triage nurse about a 3-year-old who is sick with the flu. Which report by the parent would necessitate intervention by the nurse?

Question

A parent calls the after-hours triage nurse about a 3-year-old who is sick with the flu.  Which report by the parent would necessitate intervention by the nurse?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_cc91_7c95_b433_eb6508f28d9f_MD0009_00 The nurse should tell the parent to discontinue the use of bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) as it contains a salicylate (same class as aspirin) and could possibly cause Reye syndrome. Reye syndrome can develop in children with a recent viral illness such as varicella or influenza. It can cause acute encephalopathy and hepatic dysfunction. Children with viral infections should not be given aspirin or products containing salicylates. (Options A and C) Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are being used appropriately. (Option D) Sufficient fluids are important to maintain hydration in the child with influenza. Water and fluids should be offered frequently; popsicles and gelatin desserts (eg, Jell-O) provide a palatable means of getting children to ingest fluids. Educational objective: The nurse should tell the parent not to administer any product containing aspirin or salicylates to a child with a viral infection (eg, influenza, varicella) to prevent Reye syndrome.

A Parent Calls the After-Hours Triage Nurse About a 3-Year-Old