Pediatric Nursing Demystified

Nose

Most pediatric conditions of the nose are discussed in Chapter 5 on respiratory

conditions. Nose bleeds (epistaxis) can occur in many conditions and may

require different treatment depending on the cause.

What Went Wrong?

Epistaxis can occur from trauma to the nasal mucosa or secondary to bleeding

disorders involving a decrease in clotting factors, such as hemophilia.

Signs and Symptoms

Bleeding from nasal passage (commonly the anterior septum)

Test Results

Clotting factors: Prolonged values for prothrombin (PT), partial throm-

boplastin (PTT), and thrombin time (TT) may be noted in some conditions

that cause epistaxis.

Decreased platelets and fibrinogen levels may be noted, increasing risk

for bleeding.

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(^60) Pediatric Nursing Demystified

1. The nurse notices an inward deviation of the eyes in a 3-month-old child. What
   actions would be appropriate for the nurse to take?
   a. Inform the doctor of the abnormality and assist the parents in planning for pending
   surgery.
   b. Document the finding and plan to follow up by observing the eyes at a future visit
   after the child is >4 months of age.
   c. Patch one eye and allow the other to strengthen, and then patch the opposite eye.
   d. Administer analgesics and instruct the parents to administer analgesics on a regular
   basis until the child is older and able to take the medication.
   Answer:


2. Why should parents be taught to hold child upright during feedings to avoid otitis
   media?
   Answer:

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