A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who has a prescription for clear liquids by mouth after a repair of an intussusception. Which of the following fluids should the nurse select for the infant?

Choice A reason: Bleeding precaution is indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, as it reduces the risk of hemorrhage and injury. The nurse should monitor the child for signs of bleeding, such as petechiae, ecchymosis, epistaxis, hematuria, and melena. The nurse should also avoid invasive procedures, use soft-bristled toothbrushes, apply pressure to venipuncture sites, and administer platelet transfusions as prescribed.

Choice B reason: Droplet precaution is not indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, unless the child has a respiratory infection that is transmitted by droplets. Droplet precaution involves wearing a mask when within 3 feet of the child, and placing the child in a private room or with a roommate who has the same infection.

Choice C reason: Neutropenic precaution is indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low neutrophil count, as it reduces the risk of infection and sepsis. Neutropenic precaution involves placing the child in a private room with positive pressure airflow, wearing gloves, gown, and mask when entering the room, and restricting visitors who are ill or immunocompromised.

Choice D reason: Contact precaution is not indicated for a child who has leukemia and a critically low platelet count, unless the child has a skin or wound infection that is transmitted by direct or indirect contact. Contact precaution involves wearing gloves and gown when entering the room, and placing the child in a private room or with a roommate who has the same infection.

Choice A reason: Blood pressure is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss, as it can be affected by many other factors, such as cardiac output, vascular resistance, and blood volume. Blood pressure may not change significantly until the fluid loss is severe and the compensatory mechanisms are overwhelmed.

Choice B reason: Respiratory rate is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss, as it can be affected by many other factors, such as oxygen demand, carbon dioxide levels, acid-base balance, and respiratory infections. Respiratory rate may increase as a result of fluid loss, but it is not a specific or sensitive sign.

Choice C reason: Skin integrity is not the most reliable indicator of fluid loss, as it can be affected by many other factors, such as age, nutrition, hydration, and skin diseases. Skin integrity may deteriorate as a result of fluid loss, but it is not a quantitative or objective measure.

Choice D reason: Body weight is the most reliable indicator of fluid loss, as it reflects the changes in the total body water and electrolytes. Body weight can be measured easily and accurately, and it can be compared with the previous or baseline values. A loss of more than 5% of the body weight indicates moderate dehydration, and a loss of more than 10% indicates severe dehydration.