The nurse is teaching a group of female adolescents about toxic shock syndrome and the use of tampons. What statement by a participant indicates a need for additional teaching?

Question

a. "I can alternate using a tampon and a sanitary napkin."
b. "I should wash my hands before inserting a tampon."
c. "I can use a superabsorbent tampon for more than 6 hours."
d. "I should call my health care provider if I suddenly develop a rash that looks like sunburn."

Answer 1

ANS: C
Teaching female adolescents about the association between toxic shock syndrome and the use of tampons is important. The teaching should include not using superabsorbent tampons; not leaving the tampon in for longer than 4 to 6 hours; alternating the use of tampons with sanitary napkins; washing hands before inserting a tampon to decrease the chance of introducing pathogens; and informing a health care provider if a sudden high fever, vomiting, muscle pain, dizziness, or a rash that looks like a sunburn appears.