A nurse is assisting with the admission of an infant who has experienced vomiting and loose, watery stools for the past 3 days. Which of the following findings indicates that the child is experiencing moderate dehydration?

A. "I limit my time spent out in the sunlight.": While moderate sun exposure can be beneficial for psoriasis, excessive sun exposure can worsen the condition or increase the risk of skin cancer. Limiting sunlight is generally a safe practice unless the client is avoiding it entirely, which is not indicated here.

B. "I try not to look at the scales on my body.": This statement suggests significant emotional distress or poor coping related to body image. Psoriasis can have profound psychological effects, including depression and anxiety, which must be reported to the provider to address the client’s mental health needs alongside physical treatment.

C. "I remove old medication on my skin before applying a new dose.": Proper application of topical medications includes cleaning old residue to promote better absorption of the new dose. This practice is appropriate and demonstrates an understanding of correct medication use.

D. "I do not use fabric softener when I wash my clothing.": Avoiding fabric softeners is a helpful strategy for clients with psoriasis because softeners can leave residues that irritate sensitive skin. This statement reflects good self-care behavior rather than a concern needing provider intervention.

• Administer betamethasone: Betamethasone is administered to pregnant clients at risk of preterm delivery to promote fetal lung maturity. Given the client's gestational age of 31 weeks and signs of severe preeclampsia, administering corticosteroids is critical to prepare for potential early delivery.
• Monitor intake and output every hour: Severe preeclampsia can impair renal function, leading to decreased urine output and worsening fluid retention. Hourly monitoring of intake and output helps detect early signs of renal compromise and fluid overload, both of which require immediate intervention.
• Assist RN with performing a vaginal examination every 12 hr: Vaginal examinations are avoided in cases of severe preeclampsia unless absolutely necessary because they can stimulate uterine contractions or introduce infection. Therefore, routinely assisting every 12 hours with vaginal exams is not appropriate in this client's plan of care.
• Obtain a 24-hr urine specimen: A 24-hour urine collection assesses the degree of proteinuria and provides a clearer diagnostic picture of the severity of preeclampsia. Quantifying protein excretion helps guide clinical management and decisions about timing of delivery.
• Provide a low-stimulation environment: A calm, quiet environment minimizes the risk of seizure activity in clients with severe preeclampsia. Reducing auditory, visual, and environmental stimulation is a standard preventative measure to decrease neurological irritability.
• Give antihypertensive medication: Severe hypertension must be promptly treated to prevent complications like stroke, placental abruption, and progression to eclampsia. Administering antihypertensive therapy helps stabilize maternal blood pressure and protects both maternal and fetal health.
• Maintain bedrest: Bedrest helps reduce blood pressure and physical stress, promoting better perfusion to the placenta. Although strict bedrest is controversial long-term, short-term bedrest is often used in severe preeclampsia management while stabilization measures are implemented.