Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which symptom in a 4-year-old could suggest viral conjunctivitis?

1. Burning and itching in both eyes

2. Excessive tearing

3. Fever and rash

4. Severe headache

The correct answer is: Burning and itching in both eyes

Burning and itching in both eyes are symptoms that can indicate viral conjunctivitis in a 4-year-old. This condition often presents with bilateral red eyes, and the burning or itching sensation is a common complaint among children affected by viral infections. Viral conjunctivitis can also accompany other symptoms linked to a viral illness, such as colds or upper respiratory infections, which may cause general discomfort in the eyes. In contrast, excessive tearing may not be specific to viral conjunctivitis, as it can also occur with allergic reactions or other types of conjunctivitis. Fever and rash often point toward a systemic infection rather than localized conjunctivitis, and severe headaches are more indicative of potential viral infections affecting the central nervous system or other causes unrelated to conjunctivitis. Therefore, burning and itching specifically align with the characteristics typical of viral conjunctivitis in pediatric populations.