A parent asks a primary care NP how much acetaminophen to give a ...

[Zoey63294]

A parent asks a primary care NP how much acetaminophen to give a 2-year-old child who has a temperature of 37.5 C. The NP should tell the parent that:
 
  a. acetaminophen is not safe in children younger than 6 years.
  b. acetaminophen may mask a fever and prevent treatment of other symptoms.
  c. antipyretics are usually not necessary for temperatures less than 37.7 C.
  d. antipyretics should be given to prevent seizures, but nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are a better choice.

Question 2

A mother brings her a college-age son to the primary care NP and asks the NP to talk to him about alcohol use. He reports binge drinking on occasion and drinking only beer on weekends.
 
  The NP notes diaphoresis, tachycardia, and an easy startle reflex. The NP should: a. admit him to the hospital for detoxification.
  b. ask him how much he had to drink last night.
  c. prescribe lorazepam (Ativan) to help with symptoms.
  d. suggest that he talk to a counselor about alcohol abuse.

[alexanderhamilton]

Answer to Question 1

C
Acetaminophen is the drug of choice for treating fever but is generally not indicated for fever less than 37.7 C. Acetaminophen is safe for children and infants. Treating the fever may prolong the illness and mask symptoms, but these are not contraindications for giving antipyretics.

Answer to Question 2

A
He is showing signs of alcohol withdrawal and possible delirium tremens and so should be admitted to the hospital. Asking him about drinking and suggesting outpatient counseling would be useful for a less emergent condition. The NP should not prescribe a medication to treat delirium tremens on an outpatient basis.

[Zoey63294]

Thank you!

[alexanderhamilton]

Always glad to help...