Nursing Care of Infants and Children - Research Paper Example

Download file to see previous pages Discussion on the manifestations of complications that need to be reported to the physician when at home. These include, but are not limited to, “temperature greater than 100 F, persistent cough (with or without sputum, pus or foul-smelling drainage from any open skin area or normal body opening, presence of abscess or boil, urine that is cloudy or foul-smelling, or burning on urination” (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006, p. 907). CNS complications were also discussed like level of consciousness, lethargy, and unresponsiveness.
Reinforce the family’s knowledge of maintenance chemotherapy for this patient. It was expected that the family already have a good working knowledge of the importance of maintenance chemotherapy for the client. Nevertheless, it was stressed in the discussion that this kind of therapy may be prescribed for months to years after successful induction and consolidation therapies, especially in ALL. This is to maintain the remission achieved through induction and consolidation (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006).
Discussion with the mother on minimizing the bacterial content of the food for the patient, as much as possible. The following key points are considered (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006, p. 907): Proper handwashing with an antimicrobial soap as necessary, abstaining from eating raw foods including raw meat, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, limitations on the number of visitors, and maintaining good hygiene (Smelzer & Bare, 2006).

Discussed with the mother and significant others available present about the importance of bleeding precautions. Prevention of trauma and injury was emphasized. Other points tackled in the discussion include using soft-bristled toothbrushes and avoiding constipation (Smelzer & Bare, 2006). After the demonstration, the patient was asked to return the demonstration to evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching. During the teaching, the patient was asked to a sitting position with neck slightly flexed, shoulders relaxed, and knees flexed. Then the patient was asked to deep breath and hold for 2 seconds, then cough two to three times in succession. Another deep breath was performed, but this time, followed by a huff cough several times. The procedure was repeated 2 to 3 times only because the patient easily got tired. Also, increased oral fluid intake was encouraged to promote systemic rehydration (Smelzer & Bare, 2006).

Ensure that the family understands the rationale why such medications are given, their dosage, route, usual and potentially fatal side effects. Activity and rest: Teach the importance of balanced rest and activity to the client. This client is susceptible to fatigue even in minor activities because of the increased metabolic rates (Huether & McCance, 2005). Nutrition: As this patient is in the maintenance phase of chemotherapeutic agents, he can develop symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, and vomiting which could alter significantly the patient’s nutritional status. Spiritual Teaching: Encourage the family to maintain and strengthen their religious belief to prevent feelings of hopelessness and helplessness ...Download file to see next pages Read More