A nurse is caring for a 6-week-old infant admitted to the pediatric unit for evaluation of a suspected pyloric stenosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Gross hematuria: Gross hematuria refers to visible blood in the urine, which can present as pink, red, or cola-colored urine. While hematuria can be associated with various kidney conditions, including Wilms' tumor, it is not a consistent or defining symptom of this specific tumor. Additionally, because the tumor is typically confined within the kidney and does not usually invade the urinary tract, gross hematuria might not always be present.

B. Dysuria: Dysuria is the medical term for painful or difficult urination. It is not a typical symptom of Wilms' tumor, as this tumor primarily affects the kidney and may not directly affect the urinary tract in a way that causes painful urination.

C. An abdominal mass: This is the correct answer. Wilms' tumor often presents as a palpable abdominal mass, which may be felt during physical examination. The mass is usually firm, non-tender, and confined to one side of the abdomen. Detection of an abdominal mass should prompt further diagnostic evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.

D. Nausea and vomiting: While some children with Wilms' tumor may experience nausea and vomiting, these symptoms are nonspecific and can be caused by various conditions. They are not considered characteristic or defining features of Wilms' tumor. The presence of nausea and vomiting would prompt further assessment to determine the underlying cause

A. Projectile vomiting

Projectile vomiting is a classic symptom of pyloric stenosis in infants. It typically occurs within 30 minutes of feeding and is forceful, often projecting several feet away from the infant. This occurs due to the obstruction at the pyloric sphincter, leading to the stomach forcefully emptying its contents.

B. Metabolic acidosis

Metabolic acidosis is not a typical finding associated with pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis leads to vomiting, which can result in dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, but it typically does not cause metabolic acidosis directly.

C. Effortless regurgitation

Effortless regurgitation is not a characteristic finding of pyloric stenosis. In pyloric stenosis, vomiting is forceful and projectile, rather than a passive regurgitation of stomach contents.

D. Distended abdomen

A distended abdomen can be a finding in pyloric stenosis. The obstruction at the pyloric sphincter can lead to gastric retention, causing the stomach to become distended over time. However, it's important to note that not all infants with pyloric stenosis will present with a visibly distended abdomen.