Question

The use of aspirin is not recommended for children with fever because of the increased risk of Reye's syndrome. Which illness typically precedes Reye's syndrome? A. Measles B. Hepatitis A C. Streptococcal sore throat D. Influenza

Short answer

A. Measles B. Hepatitis A C. Streptococcal sore throat D. Influenza Answer: D. Influenza

Step-by-step solution

Understand Reye's Syndrome

Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling of the liver and brain. It usually affects children and teenagers who are recovering from a viral infection.

Evaluate the Options

Now, let's look at each of the given options and determine which of them is the viral infection that typically precedes Reye's syndrome: A. Measles: a highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, and rash. B. Hepatitis A: a viral liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. C. Streptococcal sore throat: a bacterial infection causing pain and inflammation in the throat. Since it is a bacterial infection, it is not the correct answer. D. Influenza: a common viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as fever, chills, and aches.

Select the Correct Answer

Of the given options, Influenza (Option D) is the illness that typically precedes Reye's syndrome. It is a viral infection often connected to the increased risk of developing Reye's syndrome when aspirin is used for fever in children. Correct Answer: D. Influenza

Key concepts

NCLEX-PN Exam Preparation

The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is a critical stepping-stone for nursing candidates aiming to practice as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). As such, thorough preparation is pivotal. Candidates should engage in comprehensive study that spans across various medical areas, including pediatric nursing and the management of infectious diseases.

To prepare effectively for the pediatric section of the NCLEX-PN, understanding conditions like Reye's syndrome is essential. This means being able to identify not just the definition but also the etiology, symptoms, and related care considerations for pediatric patients. Familiarizing yourself with practice questions, especially those focused on pediatric nursing, can enhance your preparedness for the NCLEX-PN. Incorporating study aids such as flashcards, practice tests, and review courses can also reinforce knowledge and pinpoint areas that require further study.

Pediatric Nursing

In the realm of pediatric nursing, practitioners must be well-versed in the nuances of care for children and adolescents, particularly when administering medications. The avoidance of aspirin in children with viral infections is a crucial aspect of this care to prevent Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition. Pediatric nurses should be aware of the signs and symptoms of Reye's syndrome, as well as its common precursors, such as Influenza.

When caring for a child who is recovering from a viral infection, like Influenza, it's important for nurses to advocate for alternative treatments to aspirin. Education on safe medication practices is a fundamental part of pediatric nursing, as parents must be counseled on the risks associated with incorrect medication use. To enhance understanding, educating through case scenarios or real-life examples can be beneficial for nursing students and parents alike.

Infectious Diseases

Reye's syndrome serves as a notable example of the complex interaction between infectious diseases and medication reactions in pediatric patients. Infectious diseases, such as Influenza, can precipitate conditions like Reye's syndrome when not managed accurately, highlighting the importance of expertise in infectious disease within pediatric care.

Nurses must be capable of differentiating between bacterial and viral infections for appropriate treatment paths. For instance, while Streptococcal sore throat is a bacterial infection treated with antibiotics, Influenza is viral and may require antiviral medication - but never aspirin in children. Understanding the nature of infectious diseases and the safe management thereof can drastically reduce the risk of complications like Reye's syndrome, underscoring the impact that knowledgeable nursing can have on pediatric health outcomes.