Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

In managing a child with cystic fibrosis who has acute respiratory symptoms, what would the nurse prioritize in the plan of care?

1. Sending the child home with cough syrup

2. Admitting the child for intravenous antibiotics

3. Prescribing oral antibiotics for home care

4. Using nebulized saline as a first step

The correct answer is: Admitting the child for intravenous antibiotics

The appropriate prioritization in the management of a child with cystic fibrosis experiencing acute respiratory symptoms is to admit the child for intravenous antibiotics. This approach is essential because children with cystic fibrosis are at a higher risk for severe respiratory infections due to thickened airway secretions that provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Intravenous antibiotics allow for the rapid delivery of high doses directly into the bloodstream, which can be critical in treating acute exacerbations caused by infections, especially if the child is showing significant respiratory distress or has a high risk of complications. Adminitting the child for intravenous antibiotic treatment also facilitates close monitoring by healthcare professionals, ensuring that the child receives comprehensive care, which may include adjustments to treatment based on their response. Other management options, such as sending the child home with cough syrup or prescribing oral antibiotics, may not provide the necessary level of care needed in the context of an acute exacerbation. While nebulized saline might be beneficial as part of the overall management of cystic fibrosis, it is not typically the first step in managing acute respiratory symptoms that may warrant hospitalization and more aggressive treatment.