The nurse is caring for a 16-year-old client with cystic fibrosis. The client develops a temperature of 101.2° F (38.4° C). The nurse should obtain a prescription for
The nurse is caring for a 16-year-old client with cystic fibrosis. The client develops a temperature of 101.2° F (38.4° C). The nurse should obtain a prescription for
A. azithromycin.
[77%]
B. pancrelipase.
[13%]
C. multivitamin.
[2%]
D. albuterol.
[9%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Child Health
Lesson
Respiratory
Client Need
Test Plan
Physiological Adaptation
Related Topic
Alterations in Body Systems
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice A is correct. Administering azithromycin (antibiotic) is the top priority for a client with cystic fibrosis (CF) who develops a fever. Due to the excessively thick mucus that builds up in their bronchi and bronchioles, individuals with CF are incredibly susceptible to respiratory infections. A fever indicates infection and aggressive management is the top priority.
Choice B is incorrect. Pancreatic enzymes, such as pancrelipase, are administered to individuals with CF within 30 minutes of any meal and snack. These are given to aid digestion since the excessive, sticky mucus clogs up the pancreatic duct in these clients. This is a standard medication given daily but is not the top priority when a client with CF develops a fever.
Choice C is incorrect. A multivitamin is a standard medication for individuals with CF. Due to the buildup of excessive, sticky mucus in their bile duct, individuals with CF do not absorb fat normally. This leads to a deficiency in fat-soluble vitamins, vitamins A, D, E, and K. This is a standard medication daily but is not the top priority when this client develops a fever.
Choice D is incorrect. Albuterol is a bronchodilator frequently given as a nebulizer treatment to clients with CF. Although this medication might be given top priority if the client was experiencing respiratory difficulty, the question states they have developed a fever. Due to this finding, IV antibiotics are the top priority as CF clients are susceptible to infections.
Additional Info
✓ Collaboration with a dietician is recommended in the management of cystic fibrosis.
General dietary guidelines include -
- Pancrelipase is taken with snacks and meals to enable the absorption of nutrients.
- The diet should be rich in vitamins, fat, and protein. Because a client with CF often excretes high amounts of sodium, dietary items rich in sodium are usually not restricted.
✓ Blood glucose levels should be periodically monitored if diabetes mellitus should develop. DM is a common comorbidity associated with CF.
✓ Height and weight should be monitored at every exam.
