A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for an adolescent who has rheumatoid arthritis and reports difficulty feeding themselves. Which of the following referrals should the nurse recommend?

Choice A rationale:
Popcorn can be problematic for a child with Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is characterized by inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, and certain high-fiber foods like popcorn can exacerbate symptoms, causing discomfort and potential irritation of the intestinal lining.
Choice B rationale:
Hot dogs are typically high in fat and can be difficult to digest, which can trigger symptoms in a child with Crohn's disease. Additionally, processed meats like hot dogs might contain additives that could worsen inflammation in the digestive tract.
Choice C rationale:
Dried apricots are also not the best choice for a child with Crohn's disease. Dried fruits are concentrated sources of fiber and can be tough on the digestive system, potentially leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea in individuals with inflamed intestines.
Choice D rationale:
Plain yogurt is a suitable food choice for a child with Crohn's disease. It is a good source of protein and calcium and contains probiotics that can promote gut health. Probiotics may help regulate the digestive system and alleviate some symptoms associated with Crohn's disease. However, individual tolerances may vary, so it's important to monitor the child's response to yogurt.

Choice A rationale:
Edema. Edema, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, is not the primary indicator of compartment syndrome. While edema can occur due to various reasons, it's not specific to compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome primarily involves increased pressure within a closed space (muscle compartment), which can compromise blood circulation and nerve function.
Choice B rationale:
Mottling. Mottling refers to a patchy, bluish discoloration of the skin that occurs due to poor blood circulation and is often seen in critically ill patients. While it might indicate circulatory issues, it's not a direct sign of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is more closely associated with symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Urticaria. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy, and red or white welts. It is typically caused by an allergic reaction or other factors such as medications. Urticaria is unrelated to compartment syndrome, which involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels within a closed anatomical compartment, leading to ischemia and potential tissue damage.
Choice D rationale:
Pulselessness. Pulselessness is a critical sign that the nurse should monitor when conducting a circulatory check for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a confined space (muscle compartment), leading to compromised blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. The lack of a palpable pulse in the affected area suggests that blood flow is severely compromised. This is a late sign of compartment syndrome and requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and long-term complications.