Final answer:
Nurses must provide mothers with comprehensive medication safety instructions, including dosing, storage, side effects, adherence, infection prevention measures, nutrition, and the importance of medical follow-ups and environmental safety to minimize risks for children on chronic medication.
Step-by-step explanation:
Discharge Instructions for Medication Safety
When an 8-year-old is going home on medication for a chronic condition, it's crucial to prioritize safety to minimize the risk of injury. The nurse should provide the mother with clear instructions and basic information, which includes:
- Proper dosing and administration of the medication
- Safe storage of medication away from the child's reach
- Understanding potential side effects and what to do if they occur
- Importance of adherence to the medication schedule
- Measures to prevent infection, such as handwashing
- Nutritional advice to support overall health and medication efficacy
Additionally, educating the mother on the importance of regular medical follow-up and recognizing signs of medication-related problems is essential.
It is also vital to discuss environmental factors, like ensuring the home is free from potential toxins such as lead, providing a balanced diet that may help in mitigating absorption of harmful substances, and emphasizing the importance of vaccinations to prevent disease.