What is the most appropriate nursing intervention when caring for a child with pneumonia?
What is pneumonia in children?Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs. It can be mild or serious. Pneumonia is generally more common in children younger than 5 years old. Show
What causes pneumonia in a child?Pneumonia is most often caused by bacteria or viruses. Some of these bacteria and viruses can be spread by direct contact with a person who is already infected with them. Common bacteria and viruses that may cause pneumonia are:
Pneumonia may sometimes be caused by fungi. Which children are at risk for pneumonia?A child is more likely to get pneumonia if they have:
In addition, children younger than 1 year old are at risk if they are around secondhand tobacco smoke. This is especially true if their mother smokes. What are the symptoms of pneumonia in a child?Symptoms may be a bit different for each child. They may also depend on what is causing the pneumonia. Cases of bacterial pneumonia tend to happen suddenly with these symptoms:
Early symptoms of viral pneumonia are the same as those of bacterial pneumonia. But with viral pneumonia, the breathing problems happen slowly. Your child may wheeze, and the cough may get worse. Viral pneumonia may make a child more at risk for bacterial pneumonia. In addition to the symptoms listed above, your child may have:
The symptoms of pneumonia may look like other health problems. Make sure your child sees their healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is pneumonia diagnosed in a child?Your child’s healthcare provider can often diagnose pneumonia with a full health history and physical exam. They may include these tests to confirm the diagnosis:
How is pneumonia treated in a child?Treatment may include antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia. No good treatment is available for most viral pneumonias. They often get better on their own. Flu-related pneumonia may be treated with an antiviral medicine. Other treatments can ease symptoms. They may include:
Some children may be treated in the hospital if they are having severe breathing problems. While in the hospital, treatment may include:
What are possible complications of pneumonia in a child?Pneumonia can be a life-threating illness. It may have these complications:
How can I help prevent pneumonia in my child?Pneumococcal pneumonia can be prevented with a vaccine that protects against 13 types of pneumococcal pneumonia. Doctors recommend that children get a series of shots beginning at age 2 months. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about this vaccine. Another vaccine is available for children older than 2 years who are at increased risk for pneumonia. Talk with your child's healthcare provider to see if it is recommended for your child. Also make sure your child is up-to-date on all vaccines, including the yearly flu shot. Pneumonia can occur after illnesses such as whooping cough and the flu. You can also help your child prevent pneumonia with good hygiene. Teach your child to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Your child should also wash their hands often. These measures can help prevent other infections, too. VaccinesYour child can be vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia. There are two types of vaccines that can help prevent pneumococcal disease. The vaccine that is right for your child depends on their age and risk factors. Talk with your child's healthcare provider about which vaccine is best for your child and when they should get it. When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?Call your child’s healthcare provider if your child’s symptoms get worse. Or if they have:
Call 911Call 911 right away if your child has any of these symptoms:
Key points about pneumonia in children
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:
What is the nursing management of child for pneumonia?Supportive and symptomatic management is key and includes supplemental oxygen for hypoxia, antipyretics for fever, and fluids for dehydration. This is especially important for non-infectious pneumonitis and viral pneumonia for which antibiotics are not indicated. [22][31] Cough suppressants are not recommended.
What is the nursing intervention when caring for a client with pneumonia?Nursing Interventions. Removal of secretions. ... . Adequate hydration of 2 to 3 liters per day thins and loosens pulmonary secretions.. Humidification may loosen secretions and improve ventilation.. Coughing exercises. ... . Chest physiotherapy.. What is the best intervention for pneumonia?Mild pneumonia can usually be treated at home with rest, antibiotics (if it's likely be caused by a bacterial infection) and by drinking plenty of fluids. More severe cases may need hospital treatment.
Which is the priority need that must be included in the nursing care for a child with pneumonia?Initial priorities in children with pneumonia include the identification and treatment of respiratory distress, hypoxemia, and hypercarbia. Grunting, flaring, severe tachypnea, and retractions should prompt immediate respiratory support.
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