Final answer:
A nurse should review medical history, confirm the child's identity, and use a 24 gauge needle when preparing to administer an immunization to a 4-year-old child. For home administration of antimicrobials for systemic infections, the oral route is most appropriate and convenient.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse preparing to administer an immunization to a 4-year-old child should consider several actions to ensure the vaccine is given safely and effectively. One of the key actions would be to review the child's medical history and any relevant laboratory reports to identify possible contraindications or allergies that might influence the vaccination process. It is also essential to verify the child's identity, ensure the correct vaccine is administered, and that the equipment, such as the needle, is appropriate for the child's age and size. A 24 gauge needle is commonly used for pediatric immunizations due to its smaller size, which is suitable for the smaller muscles of a child. Before administering the vaccine, the nurse should explain the procedure to the child and parent to decrease anxiety and obtain informed consent.
As for the routes of administration convenient for home administration of an antimicrobial to treat a systemic infection, the oral route is often the most appropriate and convenient option. Antimicrobials taken by mouth are absorbed into the bloodstream and can treat infections throughout the body. Topical administration is only appropriate for local skin infections, while intravenous and other parenteral routes usually require medical professionals and are not typically used for home administration.