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What finding should a nurse expect in a school-age child diagnosed with erythema infectious (fifth disease)?

  1. Fever with cough

  2. Facial rash

  3. Joint pain

  4. Fluid-filled blisters

The correct answer is: Facial rash

In a school-age child diagnosed with erythema infectious, commonly known as fifth disease, a facial rash is the characteristic finding expected. This condition is caused by parvovirus B19 and is often recognized by the classic "slapped cheek" appearance, where the child may present with bright red cheeks. Following the facial rash, a lacy or reticular rash may develop on the trunk and limbs. While some children may experience mild symptoms such as low-grade fever or joint pain, the hallmark feature that distinguishes fifth disease is indeed the facial rash. The other options, including fever with cough, joint pain, and fluid-filled blisters, do not align with the classic presentation of this illness. Thus, identifying the facial rash as an expected finding is essential for understanding the clinical manifestations of fifth disease in pediatric patients.