Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What should a guardian of a child with rheumatic fever avoid giving for symptoms of pain?

1. Ibuprofen

2. Aspirin

3. Acetaminophen

4. Codeine

The correct answer is: Aspirin

In the case of a child with rheumatic fever, the guardian should avoid giving aspirin for pain management due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. Reye's syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can cause rapid swelling of the liver and brain, typically associated with the use of aspirin in children and teenagers who have viral infections or certain other conditions. While ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be safely used to alleviate pain and inflammation in children with rheumatic fever, aspirin should be avoided to minimize the risk of complications. Codeine, while an opioid pain reliever, may also be prescribed for severe pain, but its use would depend on the specific clinical situation and the guidance of a healthcare provider. Therefore, the emphasis on avoiding aspirin specifically relates to its association with potentially severe side effects in children, particularly those recovering from viral infections or those with underlying conditions such as rheumatic fever.