Master Reye's Syndrome with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Reye’s syndrome is associated with salicylate use in children with viral illnesses, such as the chickenpox and influenza. For this reason, aspirin should be avoided in this population. Acetaminophen is recommended as an alternative medication.

Children with Reye’s syndrome will have cerebral edema. When cerebral edema occurs, the child may experience seizures and a decreased level of consciousness.

A patient with Reye’s syndrome may present as tired or weak. This is called lethargy. Patients should be closely monitored for increasing neurologic impairment and decreased level of consciousness, as this could indicate worsening of the condition.

Frequent vomiting is associated with Reye’s syndrome.

This syndrome is known to affect various organs throughout the body, most notably inducing fatty changes in the liver. As the child’s liver begins to fail, lab results may show increased liver enzymes such as AST, ALT, and increased ammonia levels.

Early detection and treatment of Reye’s syndrome is essential, as death may result within hours if left untreated. After initial onset of this condition, closely monitor the patient's ICP, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Increased ICP may indicate cerebral edema, which is a serious threat to these patients and could result in coma or death. Signs and symptoms of increased ICP include a change in level of consciousness, headache, vomiting, abnormal/asymmetrical pupils, and posturing. For more information, refer to the Picmonic card titled ‘Increased Intracranial Pressure’.

Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to decrease ICP. This medication works by creating an osmotic gradient that pulls fluid from the brain into the vasculature and provides an immediate plasma-expanding effect that reduces hematocrit and blood viscosity and leads to diuresis.

Children under the age of 18 should not be given aspirin or salicylate-containing medications. Instead, acetaminophen can be used.