Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is the best advice for a parent concerned about a sibling catching a cold from their child?

1. Claim that the baby has maternal antibodies and won't get sick

2. Send the sick child to stay at the grandmother's house

3. Encourage the sick child to wash hands frequently

4. Have the sick child wear a mask to prevent spreading germs

The correct answer is: Encourage the sick child to wash hands frequently

Encouraging the sick child to wash their hands frequently is the best advice for a parent concerned about a sibling catching a cold. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections, including the common cold. By promoting regular handwashing, not only can the sick child reduce the number of germs transferred to other surfaces, but they can also minimize the risk of spreading those germs to the sibling or anyone else in the household. The effectiveness of this practice is supported by research that highlights how proper handwashing can significantly lower the transmission rates of respiratory viruses. This method is practical and can be easily integrated into daily routines, making it a feasible option for families. Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not provide the same level of proactive prevention. The claim about maternal antibodies may not accurately reflect the situation, as it can lead to complacency regarding hygiene practices. Sending the sick child to live elsewhere could disrupt family dynamics and is not a sustainable or practical approach to managing illness in a household. Having the sick child wear a mask can be beneficial to some extent, but it should be just one part of a broader strategy that includes frequent handwashing and respiratory etiquette. Hence, focusing on hand hygiene as a primary measure is essential