A 4-year-old with nephrotic syndrome is experiencing severe periorbital edema. The best measure the nurse could institute to help reduce the periorbital edema is:

A) Place a tongue depressor in the client's mouth:

Incorrect. Placing a tongue depressor in the client's mouth is not recommended during a seizure. Doing so can lead to injury, as the child may bite down on the depressor and cause harm to their teeth or mouth.

B) Restrain the client:

Incorrect. Restraining a person during a seizure can be extremely dangerous. It can lead to physical harm to both the person experiencing the seizure and the person trying to restrain them. Restraining can increase the risk of fractures, dislocations, and other injuries.

C) Assess the client's airway patency:

Correct. Assessing the client's airway patency is essential during a seizure. The nurse should ensure that the child's airway is clear and open to maintain proper breathing. This involves observing for any obstruction or difficulty in breathing and taking appropriate measures to keep the airway open.

D) Remove objects from the client's bed:

Correct. Removing objects from the client's bed is a necessary action to prevent injury during a seizure. Objects on the bed can pose a risk of harm to the child if they were to strike them during the seizure. Creating a safe environment by removing potential hazards is important.

E) Place the client in a side-lying position:

Correct. Placing the client in a side-lying position is recommended during a seizure. This position helps prevent aspiration and maintains a clear airway. It also reduces the risk of choking and allows any fluids to drain from the mouth, minimizing the risk of choking.

In summary:

Choice A is incorrect because placing a tongue depressor can cause injury.

Choice B is incorrect because restraining can lead to harm.

Choice C is correct because assessing the airway ensures proper breathing.

Choice D is correct because removing objects reduces the risk of injury.

Choice E is correct because placing the client in a side-lying position helps maintain a clear airway and prevents aspiration.

A) Preventing further Urinary Tract Infections:

This is a relevant priority for patients with reflux. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes to the kidneys, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Preventing UTIs is important because recurring infections can lead to more severe kidney problems and complications. Teaching patients and caregivers about hygiene, proper voiding techniques, and recognizing UTI symptoms is crucial to minimize the risk of infections.

B) Preventing kidney damage:

Preventing kidney damage is a significant priority for patients with reflux. If urine refluxes back into the kidneys, it can lead to kidney damage over time. This damage can affect kidney function and potentially lead to chronic kidney disease. Monitoring kidney function, managing UTIs promptly, and considering medical or surgical interventions to correct reflux are all important strategies to prevent kidney damage.

C) The chances of needing brain surgery:

The chances of needing brain surgery are not directly related to reflux. Reflux primarily involves the urinary system, specifically the flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys. Brain surgery is not a relevant consideration in the context of reflux or its management.

D) Antibiotic usage teaching with the presence of an infection:

This is an important aspect of care for patients with reflux who develop urinary tract infections. UTIs are common complications of reflux, and appropriate use of antibiotics is crucial to treat infections effectively and prevent further complications. Teaching patients and caregivers about the importance of completing prescribed antibiotic courses, recognizing signs of infection, and adhering to medical advice is essential to manage UTIs in the presence of reflux.