A nurse in an emergency department is caring for an infant who has a 2-day history of vomiting and an elevated temperature. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as the most reliable indicator of fluid loss?
Blood pressure.
Respiratory rate.
Body weight.
Skin integrity.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Blood pressure is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss in infants. Blood pressure can remain normal until dehydration is severe.
Choice B rationale
Respiratory rate can be affected by many factors and is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss.
Choice C rationale
Body weight is the most reliable indicator of fluid loss in infants. A significant decrease in body weight indicates significant fluid loss and helps guide appropriate fluid replacement therapy.
Choice D rationale
Skin integrity can be affected by many factors and is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
At 10 months, infants are typically able to imitate simple sounds, including animal sounds. This is a normal developmental milestone.
Choice B rationale
Turning pages in a book is a fine motor skill that develops later, around 12 months of age.
Choice C rationale
Building a tower of three or four cubes is a skill that typically develops around 15-18 months of age.
Choice D rationale
By 10 months, infants should be able to sit steadily without support. Inability to do so may indicate a developmental delay.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the parents to rock the infant provides comfort and emotional support, which is crucial for the infant’s recovery. Rocking can also help soothe the infant and promote bonding between the parents and the child.
Choice B rationale
Administering ibuprofen as needed for pain is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age due to the risk of adverse effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.
Choice C rationale
Positioning the infant on her abdomen is contraindicated after cleft lip repair surgery as it can put pressure on the surgical site, potentially causing damage and increasing the risk of infection.
Choice D rationale
Offering the infant a pacifier is not advisable as sucking can put strain on the surgical site, potentially leading to complications and delaying the healing process.