A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old child. The child's provider has ordered a diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine to be administered. Which of the following should cause the nurse to question the administration of this vaccine?

A. Sodium 142 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for sodium (135-145 mEq/L) and does not indicate a problem that needs immediate attention.

B. Urine specific gravity 1.025: This value is on the higher end of the normal range for urine specific gravity (1.010-1.030) and indicates concentration of urine, which can occur in mild dehydration. It is not critical but indicates the need for monitoring.

C. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This is below the normal range for potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac issues and muscle weakness. It is a priority to correct this imbalance to prevent complications.

D. Blood glucose 110 mg/dL: This is within the normal range for blood glucose levels (70-110 mg/dL) for children and does not indicate an immediate concern related to dehydration.

A. Taking the infant's vital signs every 2 hr: Monitoring vital signs every 2 hours can help assess the infant’s general condition and detect changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can indicate changes in hydration status. However, it might not be sufficient alone to monitor fluid status.

B. Counting the number of wet diapers every shift: Tracking the number of wet diapers is an effective way to monitor the infant's fluid output and hydration status. An increase in wet diapers typically indicates improved hydration. This is a practical and non-invasive method for assessing the effectiveness of IV therapy in infants.

C. Weighing the infant at the same time every day: Daily weights are a critical measure of fluid balance in infants. A consistent daily weight check provides a direct and accurate assessment of the infant’s hydration status and response to IV therapy.

D. Measuring the infant's head circumference twice per day: Measuring head circumference is not relevant for monitoring hydration status. It is typically used to assess growth and development in infants, not fluid balance or response to IV therapy.