Which immunizations should a nurse plan to administer during a well-child visit of a 5-year-old?

During a well-child visit for a 5-year-old, the nurse should prioritize administering the DTaP vaccine, which stands for Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis. The DTaP vaccine is typically given in a series of five doses, with the last dose administered between ages 4 to 6. This is a crucial age for ensuring that children have completed their primary vaccinations and are protected against these serious diseases. Adequate vaccination coverage is necessary for maintaining herd immunity and preventing outbreaks.

While IPV (Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine), MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), and PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) are also important vaccines that may be given at various points in childhood, the core focus during the 5-year-old well-child visit is primarily on ensuring that the DTaP vaccination is up to date. The IPV and MMR vaccines would usually be administered earlier, and while additional doses of PCV might be warranted in specific circumstances, the DTaP remains a key target at this age to boost protection against pertussis, especially as children begin to interact more with peers in settings like school.