Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

The correct answer is to administer oseltamivir (Tamiflu) as soon as possible. For pregnant women with suspected or confirmed influenza, prompt antiviral treatment is crucial, regardless of vaccination status. Oseltamivir is the preferred antiviral medication for pregnant women and should be started within 48 hours of symptom onset for maximum effectiveness. It's safe for use during pregnancy and can significantly reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus.

Isolation is important but not the initial priority. Administering acetaminophen alone is insufficient, as it only addresses symptoms without treating the underlying viral infection. Waiting for lab confirmation before treatment is not recommended in high-risk patients like pregnant women, as delays in antiviral therapy can lead to more severe outcomes. The CDC guidelines emphasize the importance of early antiviral treatment in pregnant women with suspected influenza, even before lab confirmation.