A nurse is caring for a 2-year-old child who has been admitted with a suspected RSV infection.
The child’s mother reports that the child has had a runny nose, fever, and decreased appetite for the past two days.
The nurse notes that the child appears irritable and has a persistent cough.
Based on these symptoms, the nurse suspects that the child’s illness may progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which could cause more severe respiratory distress.
What statement should the nurse make to educate the mother about the potential progression of RSV infection?

Choice A rationale:

This is The correct answer.

RSV can survive on hard surfaces for several days and on hands for several hours.

Providing this information addresses the client's concern about the virus's survivability on surfaces.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV can survive on hard surfaces for a longer duration than just several hours.

Providing this incorrect information could lead to misunderstandings about RSV transmission.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV can survive on surfaces, so stating that it cannot survive outside of the body would be inaccurate and misleading.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV can be transmitted not only through direct contact with an infected person but also through contact with contaminated surfaces and respiratory droplets.

Choice A rationale:

This is The correct answer because it addresses the client's concern about dehydration.

Infants and young children with RSV infection are at risk of dehydration due to increased respiratory effort, fever, and decreased oral intake.

Encouraging oral fluids or providing intravenous fluids as prescribed helps prevent dehydration, ensuring the child remains hydrated during the illness.

Choice B rationale:

While adequate fluid intake is essential, stating a specific quantity like 8 glasses of water a day is not appropriate for infants and young children.

The fluid requirements vary based on the child's age, weight, and overall health condition.

Providing a specific quantity without proper assessment can be misleading and may not meet the child's individual needs.

Choice C rationale:

Limiting the child's fluid intake to prevent overhydration is not the primary concern in this context.

Dehydration due to increased respiratory effort and decreased oral intake is a more significant concern.

Adequate hydration is crucial in preventing complications associated with dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Restricting the child to clear liquids only is not appropriate, especially in the context of RSV infection.

While clear liquids are essential, they may not provide adequate nutrition.

Maintaining appropriate oral intake, which includes a variety of fluids and, if possible, nutritionally balanced foods, is important for the child's overall well-being during the illness.