A 6-week-old infant with pyloric stenosis is scheduled for a pyloromyotomy. Which pre-operative nursing action has the highest priority?

Choice A reason: This is correct because it addresses both the physical and emotional needs of the child and the mother. The nurse should provide comfort and reassurance to the mother and explain that occasional accidents are normal and not a sign of failure.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because it implies that the mother is incompetent and needs external help. The nurse should first establish rapport and trust with the mother before suggesting any resources or interventions.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because it suggests that there is something wrong with the child's kidneys, which may alarm and offend the mother. The nurse should not jump to conclusions without assessing the child's history and symptoms.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because it generalizes and stereotypes boys as being slower than girls in toilet training. The nurse should not make assumptions based on gender and should respect individual differences.

Choice A: Assessing pupillary response to light hourly is not related to dopamine administration. Dopamine does not affect the pupils or the cranial nerves that control them.

Choice B: Initiating seizure precautions is not necessary for a client receiving dopamine. Dopamine does not lower the seizure threshold or cause convulsions.

Choice C: Measuring urinary output every hour is an important intervention for a client receiving dopamine. Dopamine increases blood pressure and cardiac output, which improves renal perfusion and urine production. Urinary output is an indicator of the effectiveness of dopamine therapy and renal function.

Choice D: Monitoring serum potassium frequently is not directly related to dopamine administration. Dopamine does not affect potassium levels or cause hyperkalemia or hypokalemia. However, potassium levels may be affected by other factors such as fluid balance, renal function, and medications.