Question

A 3-year-old child had a seizure two days ago when the child's temperature was 105 F. The child has had no previous seizures. Today, the parent and the child are in the physician's office. What should the nurse include when teaching the parent?

1. The child now has epilepsy and will need long-term care for this condition.
2. If the child develops a fever over 101°F, administer ibuprofen.
3. Make sure the child drinks plenty of water every day.
4. Call the physician's office immediately if the child develops a temperature over 100.4°F.

Answer 1

The nurse should teach the parent to administer ibuprofen for a fever over 101°F, encourage the child to drink plenty of water, and advise the parent to call the physician's office if the child develops a temperature over 100.4°F.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include when teaching the parent that if the child develops a fever over 101°F, they should administer ibuprofen. This is because ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve symptoms of headache and muscle aches that may accompany the fever. It is important for the parent to monitor and manage the child's fever to ensure their comfort and wellbeing.

In addition, the nurse should emphasize the importance of the child drinking plenty of water every day. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help regulate body temperature. The parent should encourage the child to drink water regularly to prevent dehydration, especially during periods of illness.

The nurse should also advise the parent to call the physician's office immediately if the child develops a temperature over 100.4°F. This is an important precautionary measure as a high fever can be a sign of an underlying infection or illness that may require medical attention. Prompt communication with the physician will help ensure timely and appropriate care for the child.