A nurse is caring for a child who has Kawasaki disease. Which of the following systems should the nurse monitor in response to this diagnosis?
A.
Gastrointestinal
B.
Respiratory
C.
Cardiovascular
D.
Integumentary
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Cardiovascular.
Kawasaki disease is an acute, self-limited vasculitis that primarily affects children and involves inflammation of the medium-sized blood vessels throughout the body. One of the major concerns with Kawasaki disease is its potential to impact the cardiovascular system, particularly the coronary arteries.
Explanation:
Cardiovascular System:
Kawasaki disease can lead to serious complications affecting the cardiovascular system, most notably coronary artery aneurysms. The inflammation associated with the disease can damage the walls of the coronary arteries, which may lead to the formation of aneurysms, myocardial infarction, or other cardiac complications if not treated promptly. The risk of developing coronary artery abnormalities is a primary reason why monitoring the cardiovascular system is critical in managing Kawasaki disease.
Gastrointestinal System:
While the gastrointestinal system can be affected by Kawasaki disease, symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea are not as central to the disease’s management compared to cardiovascular concerns. Gastrointestinal symptoms are often secondary and do not pose the same level of risk as cardiovascular complications.
Respiratory System:
Respiratory involvement in Kawasaki disease is less common. While children may experience some respiratory symptoms, they are not typically the primary focus of monitoring and management. The respiratory system does not face the same level of risk for serious complications as the cardiovascular system does in the context of Kawasaki disease.
Integumentary System:
Skin manifestations such as rash, swelling of the hands and feet, and peeling of the skin are common in Kawasaki disease. However, these symptoms, while important for diagnosis, are generally less critical in terms of long-term management compared to cardiovascular complications.
In summary, monitoring the cardiovascular system is crucial in Kawasaki disease due to the potential for serious complications involving the coronary arteries and other parts of the cardiovascular system. Early detection and management of these complications are essential to prevent long-term damage and improve outcomes for affected children.