Final answer:
In the case of a young child with burn injuries, anticipated treatments include oxygen therapy and the tetanus vaccine, while ibuprofen and antibiotic ointment for burns are generally contraindicated without specific indications.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a 4-year-old child rescued from a home fire should be prepared for various provider prescriptions that cater specifically to the child's immediate medical needs. Here's a breakdown of the potential provider prescriptions and their appropriateness:
- Oxygen therapy - Anticipated. It is vital to administer oxygen to patients who have inhaled smoke to ensure they receive adequate oxygenation.
- Ibuprofen for pain - Contraindicated. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may be risky for burn patients due to the potential for kidney damage and bleeding complications. More appropriate alternatives for pain management in severe cases often include opioids like morphine, oxycodone, or a combination of codeine with acetaminophen.
- Tetanus vaccine - Anticipated. Burns and other injuries can increase the risk of tetanus, making the vaccine an important prophylactic measure.
- Antibiotic ointment for burns - Contraindicated. Antibiotics are not automatically required for all burns and should be used selectively based on clinical indications like infection severity or susceptibility patterns. Unnecessary use can lead to antibiotic resistance.
Recent education initiatives have informed clinicians and parents about the prudent use of antibiotics, particularly due to rising parental expectations for prescriptions irrespective of clinical indications.