A child cut his hand a few days ago. Now the area is red, painful, and swollen, and he has a fever. The nurse could expect which interventions to be part of the treatment plan.

Choice A rationale Permethrin is an antiparasitic medication primarily indicated for the treatment of ectoparasitic infestations such as scabies and pediculosis (lice). It works by acting as a neurotoxin to kill the parasites. It has no antimicrobial properties against the common bacterial pathogens, like Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, that typically cause localized skin infections like cellulitis or abscesses, which are suggested by the child's symptoms of redness, pain, swelling, and fever, thus making it ineffective for this condition. Choice B rationale Topical antihistamine creams, like diphenhydramine, are used to relieve itching (pruritus) associated with allergic reactions, insect bites, or minor irritations by blocking histamine release locally. The child's symptoms—localized heat, erythema (redness), edema (swelling), pain, and systemic fever—strongly suggest a bacterial infection (cellulitis or abscess). An antihistamine cream would not treat the underlying bacterial pathogen or the systemic inflammatory response, making it inappropriate as a primary treatment intervention. Choice C rationale Oral antibiotics are the cornerstone of treatment for localized bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissue, such as cellulitis or an abscess, which are suggested by the classic signs of inflammation (redness, pain, swelling) and systemic symptoms (fever). An antibiotic targeting common skin flora, such as a penicillinase-resistant penicillin or cephalosporin, is necessary to eradicate the invading bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading or becoming systemic, like sepsis. Choice D rationale Monitoring daily weight is a critical nursing intervention for any child experiencing an acute illness accompanied by fever and inflammation, as it is the most reliable measure of fluid balance. Fever and infection can increase metabolic demands and insensible fluid losses, potentially leading to dehydration. Furthermore, in cases where the child is admitted or receiving treatment like antibiotics, daily weights help assess hydration status and are essential for accurate weight-based medication dosing. —.