Vaccination for Infants and Children Worksheet

Full Answer Section

      Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine: This vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, three serious diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. It is given in five doses, at 2, 4, 6, 12-15 months, and 4-6 years of age. Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine: This vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b, a bacteria that can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious infections. It is given in four doses, at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age. Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV): This vaccine protects against polio, a serious disease that can paralyze or kill. It is given in four doses, at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13): This vaccine protects against 13 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacteria that can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and other serious infections. It is given in four doses, at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age. Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine: This vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, three serious diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. It is given in two doses, at 12-15 months of age and 4-6 years of age. Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine: This vaccine protects against chickenpox, a common childhood illness that can be serious in some cases. It is given in one dose, at 12-15 months of age. The size of the syringe and needle will vary depending on the vaccine being administered. For the vaccines listed above, a 0.5 mL syringe with a 25-gauge needle is typically used. The angle of insertion for these vaccines is 90 degrees. Here are some special considerations for administering these immunizations:

• The MMR vaccine should not be given to pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems.
• The varicella vaccine should not be given to people who are allergic to eggs.
• The Hib vaccine can cause fever and irritability in some children.
• The PCV13 vaccine can cause mild pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site.

It is important to follow the instructions that come with the vaccines carefully. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your doctor or nurse. Here are some additional tips for administering childhood immunizations:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after administering the vaccine.
• Talk to the child and their parent/guardian about the vaccine and what to expect.
• Be gentle and reassuring when administering the vaccine.
• Monitor the child for any signs of a reaction after the vaccine is given.

 

Sample Solution

      Rotavirus vaccine: This vaccine is given orally to protect against rotavirus, a common cause of diarrhea in infants and young children. It is given in two doses, at 2 and 4 months of age. Hepatitis B vaccine: This vaccine is given to protect against hepatitis B, a serious liver disease that can be transmitted through blood and body fluids. It is given in three doses, at birth, 2 months, and 6 months of age.