A parent tells the nurse that he has not had his child immunized for any illnesses and the only problem the child has had is ear infections. Which of the following does this suggest to the nurse?

Question

1. The child would have benefited from receiving the pneumococcal vaccine.
2. The child would have benefited from receiving the annual flu vaccination.
3. The child has outstanding natural immunity.
4. The child has escaped unnecessary pain from the immunizations.

Answer 1

The child would have benefited from receiving the pneumococcal vaccine.

Rationale: The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control for children under age 2 and those in day care. Pneumococcal infections can lead to illnesses with the sinuses and ears such as otitis media. The mother states that the only illnesses the child has experienced are ear infections. The pneumococcal vaccine might have prevented these ear infections. There is no evidence to suggest that the annual flu vaccination would prevent ear infections. There is no evidence to suggest that the child has outstanding natural immunity. The temporary discomfort from receiving the vaccinations is outweighed by the acquired active immunity that results from receiving the vaccinations.