The parents of a 14-month-old child, hospitalized due to febrile seizures, express their concern to the nurse about their child having seizures for life. What information should the nurse share with these parents?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale While it’s true that overstimulation can sometimes trigger seizures in children with certain neurological conditions, it’s not typically a trigger for febrile seizures. Febrile seizures are caused by a rapid increase in body temperature, often due to an infection. Choice B rationale Febrile seizures are most common in young children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. As children grow older, they are less likely to have febrile seizures. Most children outgrow febrile seizures by the time they are 5 years old. Choice C rationale While it’s important to try to reduce a child’s fever, a sponge bath is not likely to prevent a febrile seizure. Febrile seizures are triggered by a rapid increase in body temperature, not the absolute value of the temperature. Choice D rationale The use of ibuprofen or other fever-reducing medications is not typically recommended as a way to prevent febrile seizures. These medications can help make the child more comfortable by reducing fever, but they do not prevent febrile seizures.