A nurse is reviewing the medical record for a child who is scheduled to receive a varicella immunization. Which of the following findings in the client's record should the nurse recognize as a contraindication?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Cardiac medications don’t contraindicate varicella vaccine, a live virus. Unless immunocompromised (e.g., via steroids), cardiac conditions don’t impair immunity enough for risk. Scientifically, this lacks evidence as a barrier, as the vaccine’s safety profile supports use in stable cardiac cases without immune suppression.Choice B reason: Chemotherapy suppresses immunity, making live vaccines like varicella dangerous due to risk of unchecked viral replication. This contraindication is scientifically grounded, as immunocompromised states (e.g., from cancer treatment) heighten infection risk, necessitating delay until immune recovery per vaccination guidelines.Choice C reason: Two diarrhea stools in a day isn’t a contraindication unless severe or linked to immunosuppression. Mild illness doesn’t preclude live vaccines; varicella can be given unless fever or systemic compromise exists. Scientifically, this is insufficient to halt immunization based on current evidence.Choice D reason: Clear rhinorrhea from a cold isn’t a contraindication for varicella vaccine. Mild respiratory symptoms without fever don’t impair immune response significantly. Scientifically, guidelines allow vaccination during minor illnesses, as it poses no increased risk, distinguishing it from severe immune deficits.