Learning System RN 3.0 Nursing Care of Children Practice Test

The recommendation for administering the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine to a 5-year-old child is based on the immunization schedule established for children. By the age of 4 to 6 years, children typically require a booster dose of DTaP to ensure continued protection against these serious diseases.

Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis can have significant complications; therefore, maintaining immunity through vaccination is crucial. The DTaP vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization series, and the booster given at this age helps reinforce the immune response as children grow.

While the other vaccines listed are important, they are not specifically indicated for administration at the age of 5. The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is usually given between ages 1 and 4, the hepatitis B vaccine is typically completed by the time a child is 18 months old, and the pneumococcal vaccine (PCV) is usually given in childhood but follows a different schedule. Thus, the DTaP vaccine is the most appropriate immunization at 5 years of age.