A toddler with URI symptoms and fever has a throat culture with no growth. During discharge education, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Monitor closely for drooling and agitation
• B. Start antibiotics
• C. Avoid fluids
• D. Limit activity

Answer: (A)

A negative throat culture in a toddler with URI symptoms and fever points to a viral illness rather than a bacterial infection. Because antibiotics won’t help viral infections, they’re not indicated. The key discharge instruction is to watch for signs that could indicate airway problems or a more serious condition—drooling and agitation are red flags that warrant prompt medical evaluation. Keep the child hydrated and allow rest as tolerated, and seek care if drooling worsens, the child becomes unusually irritable or difficult to console, or shows any breathing difficulty.