The parents of a 14-month-old child who is hospitalized due to febrile seizures tell the nurse that they fear their child will have lifelong seizures. Which information should the nurse convey to these parents?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Ibuprofen should be used prophylactically to prevent febrile seizures: Antipyretics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help reduce fever-related discomfort but do not prevent febrile seizures. Prophylactic use for seizure prevention is not recommended. B. Reassure the parents that febrile seizures decrease as the child grows older: Febrile seizures are typically benign, occur between 6 months and 5 years of age, and most children outgrow them. Conveying this information reduces parental anxiety and provides reassurance C. Avoid excessive visual stimuli because it can precipitate seizure activity: While some seizures (e.g., photosensitive epilepsy) can be triggered by visual stimuli, febrile seizures are triggered by fever, not light exposure. D. Provide the child with a sponge bath for temperatures over 100.6°F (38.1°C): Sponge baths may help reduce discomfort from fever but do not prevent febrile seizures. This intervention is supportive rather than preventive or prognostic.