A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who is postoperative following a myringotomy. Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to determine the infant's pain level?

Choice A: This response indicates an understanding of the teaching, as pancreatic enzymes are essential for a child who has cystic fibrosis (CF), which is a condition that causes thick mucus to block the pancreatic ducts and impair digestion and absorption of nutrients. Pancreatic enzymes help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in food and prevent malnutrition, steatorrhea, or vitamin deficiencies. Pancreatic enzymes should be given with snacks and meals to ensure adequate digestion.

Choice B: This response indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as low-fat meals with limited protein are not recommended for a child who has cystic fibrosis (CF), which is a condition that causes thick mucus to block the pancreatic ducts and impair digestion and absorption of nutrients. Low-fat meals with limited protein can cause malnutrition, weight loss, or growth failure in a child who has CF. A high-calorie, high-protein diet is recommended for a child who has CF to meet their increased energy needs and promote growth and development.

Choice C: This response indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as limiting fluid intake is not recommended for a child who has cystic fibrosis (CF), which is a condition that causes thick mucus to block the airways and lungs and cause respiratory infections and complications. Limiting fluid intake can cause dehydration, thickening of mucus, or difficulty in expectoration in a child who has CF. Adequate fluid intake is recommended for a child who has CF to hydrate the body, thin out mucus, and facilitate clearance.

Choice D: This response indicates a lack of understanding of the teaching, as restricting salt intake is not recommended for a child who has cystic fibrosis (CF), which is a condition that causes excessive loss of salt through sweat due to abnormal chloride transport in cells. Restricting salt intake can cause hyponatremia, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance in a child who has CF. Adequate salt intake is recommended for a child who has CF to replace the lost salt and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Choice A: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in children with influenza. Ibuprofen does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, which is a rare but serious condition that affects the brain and liver.

Choice B: Grapefruit juice is a citrus fruit that can provide vitamin C and hydration for children with influenza. Grapefruit juice does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, but it can interact with some medications and affect their absorption or metabolism.

Choice C: A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air and can help ease congestion and coughing in children with influenza. A humidifier does not increase the risk of Reye syndrome, but it should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial growth and infection.

Choice D: Aspirin is a salicylate that can be used to reduce fever and inflammation in children with influenza. However, aspirin can increase the risk of Reye syndrome, especially in children who have viral infections. Reye syndrome can cause swelling in the brain, liver damage, and even death. Therefore, aspirin should be avoided in children under 19 years old who have influenza or other viral illnesses.