Molly, with suspected rheumatic fever, is admitted to the pediatric unit. When obtaining the child’s history, the nurse considers which information to be most important?
A fever that started 3 days ago
Lack of interest in food
A recent episode of pharyngitis
Vomiting for 2 days
Question 1 Explanation:
A recent episode of pharyngitis is the most important factor in establishing the diagnosis of rheumatic fever. Although the child may have a history of fever or vomiting or lack interest in food, these findings are not specific to rheumatic fever.