A nurse is preparing to administer required immunizations to a toddler during a well-child visit. The parent asks the nurse how many baby aspirins he should administer if the toddler develops a fever.
Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
A.
“You should follow the label directions based on your child’s weight.”
B.
“You should avoid administering aspirin to your child.”
C.
“Your child will require an antibiotic if she develops a fever.”
D.
“Your child can have two baby aspirins every 4 hours.”
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. “You should avoid administering aspirin to your child.”
Explanation:
Aspirin is contraindicated in children, especially following viral illnesses such as those for which immunizations are typically given, due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. It is most commonly associated with children who have been given aspirin during a viral infection like influenza or chickenpox.
Key Points:
- Reye’s Syndrome Risk:
- Reye’s syndrome can lead to severe complications, including liver failure and encephalopathy. It primarily affects children and teenagers recovering from a viral infection, especially if they have taken aspirin. Therefore, aspirin should be avoided in children unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider for certain conditions.
- Safe Alternatives:
- For fever management in children, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are generally recommended as safer alternatives. These medications effectively reduce fever and are less likely to cause serious adverse effects in children.
- Misconceptions About Fever:
- Fever is a common response to vaccination, as the body’s immune system reacts to the vaccine. Most post-vaccination fevers are mild and can be managed with appropriate dosing of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It’s important to follow dosage instructions based on the child’s weight and age, as indicated on the medication label or as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Importance of Educating Parents:
- As a nurse, it’s crucial to educate parents about the dangers of giving aspirin to children and to provide guidance on safer alternatives for fever management. Informing parents about the correct usage of over-the-counter medications helps prevent adverse drug reactions and ensures the well-being of the child.
Incorrect Options:
- Option A: Advising the parent to follow label directions for aspirin is incorrect because it does not address the significant risk of Reye’s syndrome.
- Option C: Suggesting that the child will need an antibiotic for fever is inappropriate unless there is a confirmed bacterial infection. Most post-vaccination fevers are viral and self-limiting.
- Option D: Recommending baby aspirin is dangerous due to the associated risks in children.
In conclusion, the nurse’s response should prioritize child safety by discouraging aspirin use and suggesting safer fever management options.