A hospitalized child with minimal change nephrotic syndrome is ...

[BRWH]

A hospitalized child with minimal change nephrotic syndrome is receiving high doses of prednisone. Which is an appropriate nursing goal related to this?
 
  a. Prevent infection.
  b. Stimulate appetite.
  c. Detect evidence of edema.
  d. Ensure compliance with prophylactic antibiotic therapy.

Question 2

The nurse closely monitors the temperature of a child with minimal change nephrotic syndrome. The purpose of this assessment is to detect an early sign of which possible complication?
 
  a. Infection
  b. Hypertension
  c. Encephalopathy
  d. Edema

[fromAlphatoOmega22]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
High-dose steroid therapy has an immunosuppressant effect. These children are particularly vulnerable to upper respiratory tract infections. A priority nursing goal is to minimize the risk of infection by protecting the child from contact with infectious individuals. Appetite is increased with prednisone therapy. The amount of edema should be monitored as part of the disease process, not necessarily related to the administration of prednisone. Antibiotics would not be used as prophylaxis.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Infection is a constant source of danger to edematous children and those receiving corticosteroid therapy. An increased temperature could be an indication of an infection. Temperature is not an indication of hypertension or edema. Encephalopathy is not a complication usually associated with minimal change nephrotic syndrome. The child will most likely have neurologic signs and symptoms.

[BRWH]

Excellent

[scottmt]

TYSM