When a child has a vesicular rash of unknown etiology, what should the nurse do first?

When a child presents with a vesicular rash of unknown etiology, the first priority is to implement transmission precautions. This is essential because a vesicular rash can be indicative of various contagious conditions, such as chickenpox, herpes simplex, or hand-foot-and-mouth disease, and it is important to prevent the spread of any potential infection to other patients and staff. By putting transmission precautions in place, such as isolating the child or using personal protective equipment, the nurse helps protect those in the healthcare environment from possible contagion.

Taking action to safeguard other patients is critical in a pediatric setting, where some children may be particularly vulnerable due to age or underlying health conditions. While administering antihistamines, calling the physician, and documenting findings are each important steps in comprehensive patient care, they come after ensuring that the child's infectious status is addressed through appropriate precautions. Addressing potential contagion first is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice, ensuring safety for everyone involved in the care of the child.