A nurse is caring for a child who has a urinary tract infection. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

The correct answer is choice C. 6.8 to 7.7 kg (15 to 17 lb).

Choice A rationale:

This weight range is above the average for a 6-month-old infant. According to growth charts, the 50th percentile weight for a 6-month-old male is approximately 7.9 kg (17 lb 8 oz), and for a female, it’s about 7.3 kg (16 lb 1 oz). Therefore, 8.6 to 9.5 kg would be considered above average and not the anticipated weight for most infants.

Choice B rationale:

This weight range is below the average for a 6-month-old infant. The average weight at 6 months is significantly higher than 4.1 to 5 kg, as infants are expected to double their birth weight by 5 months of age. Therefore, an infant weighing between 9 to 11 lb at 6 months would be considered underweight.

Choice C rationale:

This weight range is within the average for a 6-month-old infant. As mentioned, the 50th percentile weights for 6-month-old infants are approximately 7.9 kg for males and 7.3 kg for females. This choice falls within the expected weight gain trajectory where an infant is anticipated to double their birth weight by 5 months and then gain an additional pound or so by 6 months.

Choice D rationale:

This weight range is significantly above the average for a 6-month-old infant. It is well above the 95th percentile for this age group and would be considered unusual without underlying health conditions that could contribute to such a weight at this age. An infant weighing between 23 to 25 lb at 6 months would be exceptionally rare and likely indicative of an abnormal growth pattern.

Choice A rationale:
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. It can be caused by various factors, including exposure to loud noises, ear infections, and certain medications. However, tinnitus is not a commonly reported adverse effect of albuterol, which is a bronchodilator used to treat conditions like asthma and other respiratory disorders.
Choice B rationale:
Constipation is not a commonly reported adverse effect of albuterol. Albuterol primarily acts on the smooth muscles of the airways to relax and dilate them, improving airflow. Constipation is more likely related to issues with the gastrointestinal system or certain medications, but it is not a direct consequence of albuterol use.
Choice C rationale:
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not a known adverse effect of albuterol. Albuterol primarily affects the respiratory system and does not typically impact blood glucose levels. Hypoglycemia is more commonly associated with diabetes medications like insulin or certain oral hypoglycemic agents.
Choice D rationale:
Headache is a potential adverse effect of albuterol. While not everyone will experience a headache when taking albuterol, it can occur as a side effect in some individuals. Albuterol can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to effects such as increased heart rate and potential vasodilation, which could contribute to the development of a headache in some cases. It's important for the parents of a child taking albuterol to be aware of potential side effects and report them to the healthcare provider if they occur.