NCLEX Review Guide: Mumps in Pediatric Patients

Disease Overview

• Mumps is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the paramyxovirus that primarily affects the parotid glands, causing painful swelling.
• The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and has an incubation period of 14-25 days with peak contagiousness 1-2 days before symptom onset.
• Classic presentation includes bilateral or unilateral parotid gland swelling that makes chewing and swallowing painful.

Priority Nursing Actions

1. Implement droplet precautions immediately until 5 days after parotid swelling onset
2. Monitor for complications including orchitis in post-pubertal males and meningitis
3. Assess hydration status as swallowing difficulties can lead to dehydration
4. Provide comfort measures including cool compresses to swollen glands

Management Approach

• Treatment is primarily supportive care as mumps is a self-limiting viral infection lasting 7-10 days.
• Pain management includes acetaminophen or ibuprofen, avoiding aspirin due to Reye's syndrome risk in children.
• Encourage soft, bland foods and adequate fluid intake while avoiding acidic or citrus foods that increase pain.

Immunization & Prevention

• The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) provides effective prevention with first dose at 12-15 months and second dose at 4-6 years.
• Educate families that children should be excluded from school/daycare for 5 days after parotid swelling onset.
• Emphasize hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette to prevent transmission to household contacts.

Quick Check Questions

• ☐ Can you identify the isolation precautions needed for mumps?
• ☐ Do you know the MMR vaccination schedule?
• ☐ Can you list three potential complications of mumps?
• ☐ Do you understand when a child can return to school?