A nurse in a well-child clinic is collecting data from four clients. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider as a potential indication of child maltreatment?

Choice A rationale:
A positive leukocyte esterase test indicates the presence of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the urine, which can be an indicator of a urinary tract infection (UTI). White blood cells are part of the body's immune response and their presence in the urine suggests inflammation and infection in the urinary tract.
Choice B rationale:
Deep gold-colored urine is not typically associated with a urinary tract infection. Normally, urine color can vary based on hydration, diet, and other factors, but color alone is not a reliable indicator of a UTI.
Choice C rationale:
The osmolality of 700 mOsm/L is not a specific finding related to urinary tract infections. Osmolality measures the concentration of particles in the urine and can vary based on hydration status. While it might be elevated in a concentrated urine sample, it is not a direct indicator of a UTI.
Choice D rationale:
A specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range and does not necessarily indicate a urinary tract infection. Specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in the urine and can be influenced by hydration levels and kidney function. A UTI would primarily be indicated by the presence of white blood cells and other signs of infection in the urine.

Choice A rationale:
Extremities warm to the touch. This manifestation is not indicative of decreased cardiac output. Warm extremities suggest adequate peripheral perfusion and circulation. In a child with decreased cardiac output, the body might attempt to shunt blood away from the extremities to prioritize vital organs, leading to cooler extremities.
Choice B rationale:
Capillary refill 2 seconds. A capillary refill time of 2 seconds is within the normal range for a preschool-aged child. This quick capillary refill suggests adequate circulation and is not a sign of decreased cardiac output. Prolonged capillary refill time might be indicative of poor peripheral perfusion.
Choice C rationale:
Blood pressure 112/66 mm Hg. While a blood pressure of 112/66 mm Hg might be within the normal range for a preschooler, it is not the most reliable indicator of decreased cardiac output. Blood pressure can be influenced by various factors, and a seemingly normal blood pressure does not rule out decreased cardiac output if other manifestations are present.
Choice D rationale:
Diminished pulses. This is the correct choice. Diminished or weak pulses are indicative of decreased cardiac output. Inadequate blood volume being pumped by the heart can lead to reduced peripheral perfusion, resulting in diminished pulses. This sign is important in assessing the child's cardiovascular status postoperatively, especially after a corrective procedure for tetralogy of Fallot.