An RN in a primary care office is caring for a 10-year-old patient experiencing fever, chills, nasal congestion, and a sore throat. The patient's mother indicates that the child had been ill for the past two days, experiencing a poor appetite and sleepiness. The nurse swabs the patient's throat for rapid microbial analysis, suspecting the patient's symptoms are due to a common pathogen.
-The laboratory findings report that the child is infected with influenza B virus. Which of the following medications would the nurse expect to be ordered for this child?

Question

An RN in a primary care office is caring for a 10-year-old patient experiencing fever, chills, nasal congestion, and a sore throat. The patient's mother indicates that the child had been ill for the past two days, experiencing a poor appetite and sleepiness. The nurse swabs the patient's throat for rapid microbial analysis, suspecting the patient's symptoms are due to a common pathogen.
-The laboratory findings report that the child is infected with influenza B virus. Which of the following medications would the nurse expect to be ordered for this child?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oseltamivir is an antiviral medication that is used to treat influenza infections. It is effective against influenza A and B viruses and can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms if started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Penicillin is an antibiotic that is ineffective against viral infections like influenza. No medication may be an option for some patients with mild symptoms, but this child has a confirmed diagnosis of influenza B and may benefit from antiviral treatment. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication that is effective against herpes virus infections but is not indicated for the treatment of influenza.

An RN in a Primary Care Office Is Caring for a 10-Year-Old