A clinic nurse is caring for a 4-year-old client with acute diarrhea and mild dehydration who is afebrile, active, and alert. The nurse is providing instructions to the parent. Which statement by the parent indicates understanding?
"We can anticipate needing intravenous fluids to correct the dehydration."
"I will continue to give oral rehydration in small amounts."
"Chicken broth will replace the needed electrolytes lost."
"If my child's soft spot becomes depressed, I will notify the healthcare provider immediately."
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Intravenous fluids are generally not required if the child is alert and active with mild dehydration; oral rehydration is usually sufficient.
B. Oral rehydration solutions are appropriate for treating mild dehydration and should be given in small amounts frequently.
C. Chicken broth is not ideal for replacing electrolytes because it is low in electrolytes and high in sodium. Oral rehydration solutions are preferred.
D. A depressed soft spot (fontanel) is a sign of severe dehydration in infants. For a 4-year-old, signs of dehydration would include changes in urine output, thirst, or dry mucous membranes rather than a depressed fontanel.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. An upper gastrointestinal series is commonly used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux (GER), which can cause symptoms like spitting up and crying after feedings, leading to failure to thrive. This test helps visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for abnormalities.
B. A biopsy of the small intestine is typically done to diagnose celiac disease, which is less likely in this clinical scenario.
C. An ultrasound is used to diagnose pyloric stenosis, which presents with projectile vomiting and is less consistent with the described symptoms.
D. A lower gastrointestinal series is used to detect intestinal blockages, which are not suggested by the symptoms of spitting up and crying immediately after feeding.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A PEFR of 45% of the personal best indicates a moderate asthma exacerbation, but immediate hospitalization is not necessarily required unless there are severe symptoms or other indicators of serious distress.
B. At 45% of the personal best PEFR, the child is experiencing a moderate asthma exacerbation. The recommended action is to use a quick-relief inhaler like albuterol, which is effective in providing immediate relief. Inhaled corticosteroids are part of the long-term management but should not replace the use of a quick-relief inhaler during an exacerbation.
C. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist used for maintenance therapy and is not typically used for acute exacerbations. Albuterol is preferred in this situation for immediate relief.
D. While monitoring PEFR is important, action should be taken when PEFR falls below 50% of the personal best, and more immediate intervention is needed at 45% of the personal best.