Question

A nurse reinforces home care instructions to the parents of a child hospitalized with pertussis. The child is in the convalescent stage and is being prepared for discharge. Which statement by the parents indicates a need for further instructions?

a. ""We need to encourage adequate fluid intake.""
b. ""Coughing episodes may be triggered by dust or smoke.""
c. ""We need to maintain respiratory precautions and a quiet environment for at least 2 weeks once home.""
d. ""Good hand-washing techniques need to be instituted to prevent spreading the disease to others.""

Answer 1

The correct answer is c. "We need to maintain respiratory precautions and a quiet environment for at least 2 weeks once home."

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is c. "We need to maintain respiratory precautions and a quiet environment for at least 2 weeks once home."

This statement indicates a need for further instructions because pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is highly contagious and can be transmitted through coughing. The convalescent stage is the final stage of the infection, marked by a chronic cough. During this stage, it is important to continue respiratory precautions to prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Statements a, b, and d are all correct and aligned with proper home care instructions for a child with pertussis.