Due 1/18/2020: Pediatric Nursing Immunization 800 Words
- Meningitis, a serious condition that can lead to inflammation of the skin and nerves surrounding the brain or spinal cord, is known as a meningitis. Meningitis is best prevented through vaccination. There are many vaccines to protect against meningitis. These vaccines can prevent serious illnesses, hospitalizations, and even death due to meningitis. All children between the ages of 11-12 and 16 years old should be vaccinated. A booster dose is available at 16. Individuals who have a high chance of contracting meningitis (e.g., those traveling to regions with an increased incidence of meningitis) should also receive the vaccine. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine must be administered intramuscularly. The meningococcal seogroup B vaccine or pneumococcal conjugate vaccination can also be administered intramuscularly.
- Immunosuppressed children or those who are acutely ill should wait before vaccinating them. This is because they can have a weak immune system that could make the child more susceptible to side effects. An acute illness such as fever, seizures and other complications can make it difficult to vaccinate. The vaccine’s effectiveness may be reduced as the immune system is not able to respond adequately. According to an evidence-based article in The Journal of Pediatrics, immunosuppressed patients should receive all appropriate vaccines for their age. They may also need to have the vaccines re-accinated once they are fully recovered.
- Three vaccines that are given subcutaneously include the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, varicella vaccine, and yellow fever vaccine. Subcutaneous administration of these vaccines is preferred because it reduces the risk of severe reactions and injury. Incorrect administration of vaccines can result in decreased efficacy or lower absorption. Subcutaneous administration of a vaccine meant to be administered intramuscularly can cause it not to absorb as well, which could lead to a decreased immune response. The benefits of giving a vaccine subcutaneously or intramuscularly depend on the vaccine and the individual’s age and medical history.
- Some allergies that would contraindicate the administration of a vaccine include anaphylactic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or to a vaccine component, severe allergic reaction to gelatin or neomycin, and severe allergy to baker’s yeast. Anaphylactic reactions are rare and occur less often than 1 in every million vaccine doses. A Lancet Infectious Diseases article based on evidence recommends that people with severe allergies to vaccines and vaccine components be assessed by allergists to decide the best course of action.