Question

A nurse is reviewing a health care provider's prescription for a child who was just admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. Which prescription should the nurse anticipate being part of the treatment plan?

a) Antibiotics for bacterial infection
b) Antiviral medication for viral suppression
c) Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
d) Antipyretics for pain relief

Answer 1

A nurse should expect intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) as the primary prescription for a child admitted with Kawasaki disease, along with aspirin therapy, while antipyretics may be used for symptomatic relief of pain and fever.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should anticipate intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to be part of the treatment plan for a child diagnosed with Kawasaki disease. This disease is an acute, febrile illness that is a leading cause of acquired heart disease in children. Treatment often involves IVIG and aspirin therapy to reduce inflammation and prevent coronary artery complications. While antipyretics may be prescribed for pain and fever management, they are supportive rather than primary treatments. Antibiotics are not typically used unless there is evidence of secondary infection, and antiviral medications are not effective against Kawasaki disease, which is not caused by a virus.