Childhood Immunizations

1
Childhood Immunizations

• Perry, pp. 252, 889, 978-990

2
Immunization Schedule

• Recommendations come from CDC and American
  Academy of Pediatrics
• Schedule on p. 979 is current and covers birth to
  6 years.
• Schedule for 7 to 18 years is on p. 980
• Meningococcal strongly recommended for
  college-bound adolescents
• If kids are late, several injections may be given
  together as shown on p. 981.

3
Common Reactions

• DTaP, Hib, Hepatitis, IPV, Varicella, PCV,
  Influenza redness, swelling, soreness, slight
  fever within a few days
• MMR same as above plus rash, swollen glands
  from 7-60 days

4
Severe, Unexpected Reactions

• Most severe reactions occur with the pertussis
  component of the DTP (fever of 105, shock-like
  state, seizures, persistent inconsolable crying,
  encephalopathy)
• Federal law has made it possible for families to
  receive financial compensation for children with
  severe, vaccine-associated injuries.

5
Immunizations Safety

• Although there are specific contraindications,
  common to all is anaphylaxis and moderate to
  severe illness with or without fever
• With all vaccines, make sure of routemay be IM
  or SQ

6
VAERS and VIS

• Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
• For agency to report any adverse reactions after
  administration of any vaccine
• Vaccine Information Statements (VIS)
• Information statements from CDC that must be
  given to parents before administration
• Provides updated information for parent/guardian
  of child being vaccinated

7
Nursing Responsibilities

• Encourage parents to immunize
• Fully inform parents about disease and
  immunization
• Benefits and risks of vaccine
• Side effects to expect
• What to do if they have concerns
• Importance of staying on track

8
Responsibilities contd

• Accurate documentation and record keeping. Make
  sure lot is included in documentation.
• document that information was explained to parent
  or guardian. Just their signature on the form may
  not be enough.
• Have a way to track and monitor childs progress
• Implement strategies for ensuring compliance (see
  Family Centered Care, p. 990)