A father presents to the emergency department with his 4 year old son. The father explains that his son had a fever, so he gave the child baby aspirin to decrease the fever and it has not worked. What should concern the nurse about a 4 year old receiving aspirin?

A. Aspirin has the potential to cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in children. While it is true that aspirin can cause GI bleeding, this is not the primary concern in this scenario. Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition, is the more significant worry when aspirin is given to children with viral infections. B. Aspirin has the potential to cause hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) is not a known effect of aspirin in children. Aspirin is not typically associated with glucose metabolism issues. C. Aspirin has the potential to cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus) in children. Tinnitus can occur with aspirin use, but it is not the primary concern in this situation. Reye's syndrome is a more serious and immediate risk associated with aspirin use in children with viral infections. D. Aspirin has the potential to cause Reye's syndrome in children. This is the correct and most significant concern. Reye's syndrome is a rare but severe condition associated with aspirin use in children during or after viral infections. It affects the liver and brain and can be life-threatening.