Question

Which of the following pediatric clients is at greatest risk for latex allergy? A. The child with a myelomeningocele B. The child with epispadias C. The child with coxa plana D. The child with rheumatic fever

Short answer

Answer: The child with myelomeningocele is at the greatest risk for latex allergy.

Step-by-step solution

Define each medical condition

To determine which child is at the greatest risk for latex allergy, we need to understand each medical condition: A. Myelomeningocele: A type of spinal bifida where an opening in the spinal column exposes a portion of the spinal cord and its protective covering. B. Epispadias: A rare birth defect in which the opening of the urethra is on the upper side of the penis, instead of at the tip. C. Coxa plana: Also known as Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, it is a childhood condition that affects the hip joint, causing the top of the thigh bone to soften and break down. D. Rheumatic fever: An inflammatory disease that can develop from untreated streptococcal throat infection, potentially affecting the joints, brain, and heart.

Identify potential risk factors for latex allergy

Latex allergy may be associated with medical conditions that require multiple surgeries or medical procedures, frequent use of latex products (e.g., medical gloves, catheters), or have a genetic predisposition to allergies. A. Myelomeningocele: Children with this condition require multiple surgeries, including spinal closure and placement of shunts for hydrocephalus (accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain). This increases their exposure to latex products. B. Epispadias: Children with this condition may require surgical correction, increasing their exposure to latex products. C. Coxa plana: This condition is typically managed with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy and braces; however, in some cases, surgery may be necessary. D. Rheumatic fever: This condition is not directly associated with an increased risk for latex allergy, as it is an autoimmune and inflammatory illness.

Compare conditions and determine which child is at the greatest risk for latex allergy

Comparing the risk factors for latex allergy among the four given conditions: A. Myelomeningocele: Requires multiple surgeries, increasing exposure to latex products. B. Epispadias: May require surgical correction, increasing exposure to latex products. C. Coxa plana: Typically managed non-surgically, but surgeries can be necessary in some cases. D. Rheumatic fever: Not directly associated with an increased risk for latex allergy. Based on this comparison, the child with myelomeningocele (A) requires the most surgeries and has the highest exposure to latex products, making them at the greatest risk for latex allergy.