Question

A nurse is teaching a parent about the observation strategy for managing a 3-year-old child's ear infection. Which statement by the parent indicates understanding of the teaching?

a."I should not give analgesics, because they may mask important symptoms."
b."I will give ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain or fever as needed."
c."I will let my provider know if the symptoms are not better in 1 week."
d."There is a slight risk of mastoiditis if antibiotic therapy is delayed."

Answer 1

The correct statement indicating understanding of the teaching is option b: "I will give ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain or fever as needed."

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement indicating understanding of the teaching is option b: "I will give ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain or fever as needed."This is the correct response because in the management of a 3-year-old child's ear infection, it is important to provide relief for the child's pain and fever. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly used analgesics and antipyretics that can help alleviate these symptoms. However, it is crucial to use them judiciously and follow the recommended dosage instructions.

In option a, not giving analgesics because they may mask important symptoms is incorrect. Although analgesics can relieve pain, they do not mask important symptoms.

Options c and d are also incorrect. While it is important to follow up with the healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve within a week (option c), there is no mention of this in the question. Additionally, while there is a slight risk of mastoiditis if antibiotic therapy is delayed (option d), it is not directly related to the observation strategy for managing the ear infection.