Pediatric Nursing: Reye's Syndrome and Lead Poisoning

Reye's Syndrome

Definition: A rare but life-threatening disorder causing swelling in the brain and liver.
Symptoms: Vomiting, confusion, seizures, coma, and death.
Risk Factors:
- Recent viral illness (e.g., influenza).
- Use of aspirin in children.
Prevention:
- Educate families to avoid aspirin in children.
- Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen instead.
Diagnosis Indicators:
- Liver dysfunction leading to elevated ALT, AST, bilirubin, and ammonia levels.
Treatment:
- Supportive care, possibly including intubation and mechanical ventilation.
Nursing Care:
- Monitor for increased intracranial pressure and take measures to decrease it.
- Implement seizure precautions.
- Implement bleeding precautions due to increased risk of hemorrhaging from liver dysfunction.

Effects: Multi-organ damage due to interference with normal cell functioning.
- Cognitive and hearing impairment.
- Growth delays.
Risk Factors:
- Homes built before 1978.
- Home renovations.
- Screening through pediatric surveys regarding housing and renovations.
Treatment:
- Chelation therapy for blood lead levels over 45 micrograms per deciliter.
- Drug binds to heavy metals and removes them from the body.
Nursing Care and Family Teaching:
- Increase intake of calcium and iron to decrease lead absorption.
- Advise wet-mopping floors and checking for peeling or flaking paint.
- Encourage frequent washing of child's toys and pacifiers.

What are the two key risk factors associated with Reye's syndrome?
- Recent viral infection and aspirin use.
A house built before what year increases a child's risk of lead poisoning?
- 1978.
Chelation therapy is used for a serum lead level greater than what number?
- 45 micrograms per deciliter.

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