A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parent of a school-age child who has pharyngitis caused by group A streptococcus B-hemolytic (GABHS). Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. "Schedule a time for your child to receive the pneumococcal vaccine within 2 weeks." The pneumococcal vaccine is not indicated in the management of GABHS pharyngitis unless the child is due for it as part of routine immunization. B. "Provide your child with their own towel for drying their face and hands at home." GABHS is contagious. Using separate towels helps prevent transmission to other family members. C. "Replace your child's toothbrush 24 hours after beginning antibiotic therapy." To avoid reinfection, toothbrushes should be replaced 24 hours after starting antibiotics. D. "Your child can return to school 24 hours after their first dose of antibiotics." After 24 hours of antibiotic therapy and if afebrile, the child is no longer contagious and may return to school. E. "Replace your child's orthodontic appliances prior to beginning antibiotic therapy." There is no need to replace orthodontic appliances due to GABHS infection. Cleaning them is sufficient.