During the course of Danny Rivera’s Shadow Health simulation, nurses are taught to identify signs and symptoms of upper respiratory infections, among them being a persistent cough. The case of Danny Rivera’s pediatric cough assessment focuses on identifying the symptoms of upper respiratory infection, which is one of the most common causes of cough among children.
In this case, subjective data collection plays a significant role. Danny presents a 3- to 5-day history of a wet, gurgled cough, which is worse at night, disrupts sleep, and makes him fatigued. He reports a runny nose that has clear discharge, a slight sore throat, and pain in the right ear. Exposure to secondhand smoke, recent contact with an ill friend, infrequent handwashing, and prior frequent colds/ear infections/pneumonia are also a part of history. Subjective findings of Danny Rivera are suggestive of a viral upper respiratory infection.
The objective data displays indicators of infections. The objective data includes clear nasal discharge and an erythematous throat characterized by cobblestoning. There is adequate bilateral air entry in both lungs. Common cold, allergic rhinitis, or bacterial complications are the possible differential diagnoses. Finally, it should be mentioned that education and empathy are significant for achieving some points in this scenario. Such tips as hand hygiene, cough etiquette, and avoidance of secondhand smoke to prevent spread/recurrence can be used to enhance your points. You also should not forget to sympathize with Danny when he reports of pain and low energy levels at school.
