Question

The nurse is obtaining a history of a child admitted with influenza and suspected Reye's syndrome. Which medication might have contributed to the development of Reye's syndrome? A. Prochlorperazine (Compazine) B. Diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil) C. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) D. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)

Short answer

Answer: C. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

Step-by-step solution

Understand Reye's Syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain. It typically affects children and teenagers recovering from a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox. One of the main risk factors for Reye's syndrome is the use of aspirin (salicylates) or medications containing salicylates in children or teenagers who have a viral infection.

Identify the Medications Containing Salicylates

From the given options, we should look for the medication containing salicylates. The options are: A. Prochlorperazine (Compazine) - an antiemetic and antipsychotic medication. B. Diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil) - an antidiarrheal medication. C. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) - an antacid and anti-inflammatory containing salicylates. D. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) - an antihistamine used to prevent motion sickness. Option C, Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), contains salicylates.

Select the Appropriate Medication

Since Reye's syndrome is associated with salicylates, and Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) contains salicylates, the medication that might have contributed to the development of Reye's syndrome in this child with influenza is Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol). Answer: C. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)