A 3-year-old child is hospitalized after a submersion injury. The child's mother complains to the nurse, "Being at the hospital seems unnecessary when he is perfectly fine." What is the nurse's best reply?
A) "He still needs a little extra oxygen."
B) "I'm sure he is fine, but the doctor wants to make sure."
C) "The reason for this is that complications could still occur."
D) "It is important to observe for possible central nervous system problems."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All children who have a submersion injury should be admitted to the hospital for observation. Although many children do not appear to have suffered adverse effects from the event, complications such as respiratory compromise and cerebral edema may occur 24 hours after the incident. The mother would not think the child is fine if oxygen were still required. The nurse should clarify that different complications can occur up to 24 hours later and that observations are necessary.

A 3-Year-Old Child Is Hospitalized After a Submersion Injury