A nurse is providing teaching about home care to a parent of a 3-year-old child who has a fever. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Take the child's temperature every 10 min after administering acetaminophen: Monitoring the temperature this frequently is unnecessary and can cause anxiety for both the child and parent. Temperatures should be reassessed every few hours to evaluate medication effectiveness. B. Wake the child every 4 hr during the night to drink 118.3 mL (4 oz) of apple juice: Rest is crucial for recovery, and children should not be routinely awakened at night for fluids unless directed by a provider. Adequate hydration should be encouraged during waking hours instead. C. Apply a light blanket if the child begins to shiver: Shivering increases metabolic demand and body temperature. Covering the child lightly during chills helps reduce discomfort without causing overheating, making this an appropriate home care measure. D. Place ice packs on the child's armpits and groin: Using ice packs can cause vasoconstriction and discomfort without effectively reducing fever. Safer methods include ensuring comfort with lightweight clothing, hydration, and antipyretics as prescribed.