Question

A nurse is reviewing the health care provider's prescriptions for a child with rheumatic fever who is suspected of having a viral infection. The nurse notes that acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is prescribed for the child. Which of the following nursing actions is appropriate?

a) Administer the aspirin as prescribed
b) Question the prescription and suggest ibuprofen instead
c) Withhold the aspirin and notify the healthcare provider
d) Administer the aspirin with a glass of milk

Answer 1

The appropriate nursing action is to withhold the aspirin and notify the healthcare provider due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate nursing action in this situation is c) withhold the aspirin and notify the healthcare provider.

Taking aspirin during a viral infection can cause brain swelling in Reye's syndrome, which can be fatal. Therefore, it is important to avoid giving aspirin to a child suspected of having a viral infection, such as rheumatic fever.

Relevant information:

• Reye's syndrome is a condition that can occur in young people who take aspirin when they have a viral infection, causing swelling of the brain.
• Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is an NSAID that inhibits the formation of blood clots and is usually taken regularly by individuals with a heart condition.
• If a child with rheumatic fever is suspected of having a viral infection, it is important to withhold the aspirin and notify the healthcare provider.