Question

An adolescent is seen in the health care clinic with complaints of chronic fatigue. On physical examination, the nurse notes swollen lymph nodes, and laboratory test results indicate the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis). The nurse provides instruction regarding care of the adolescent. Which statement made by the mother indicates an understanding of the care measures? 1. "I will call the doctor if my child has abdominal or left shoulder pain." 2. "I need to keep my child on bed rest for 3 weeks to discourage physical activity." 3. "I will notify the health care provider if my child is still feeling tired in 1 week." 4. "I need to isolate my child so that the respiratory infection is not spread to others."

Answer 1

Answer:

2. "I need to keep my child on bed rest for 3 weeks to discourage physical activity."

Explanation:

Mononucleosis enlarges the spleen, making it prone to break more easily, for this reason, it is advisable to avoid activities that require a great physical effort and rest in bed for 3 to 4 weeks for optimal recovery.

Answer 2

Answer: 1) "I will call the doctor if my child has abdominal or left shoulder pain."

Explanation:. When being taught about care measures for the child, the mother should have been told to call the doctor or Health care provider if the child complains of abdominal pain, especially if the pain is at the upper left quadrant or left shoulder as this may be a symptom of splenic rupture.

Furthermore a child with enlarged spleen is not supposed to be involved in contact sports until splenomegaly resolves. Children with enlarged spleens usually self limit their activity but it should be noted that bed rest is not so required, no isolation precautions are required also. But it is very important we note that transmission can occur through saliva, close intimate touch or contact, or contact with affected blood.

The mother should also have been told that The child may still feel weak and tired in 1 week due to the virus.

Having being told all these, when the mother says that she will inform the health care provider if the child complains about pain especially around the left quadrant of the shoulders, it means she u understands exactly what is required of her.