A nurse is caring for a child who has Kawasaki disease. Which of the following systems should the nurse monitor in response to this diagnosis?

A. Broth: While broth can be a source of fluids, it does not contain the appropriate balance of electrolytes needed to rehydrate the body effectively. Gastroenteritis can cause significant fluid and electrolyte loss, so an oral rehydration solution (ORS) with the right proportions of salts and sugars is essential to replace these losses adequately.
B. Diluted apple juice: Diluted apple juice may not provide the proper electrolyte balance needed for rehydration in cases of gastroenteritis. In fact, apple juice is not recommended during episodes of acute gastroenteritis, as it can worsen diarrhea due to its high sugar content. This can lead to further dehydration and discomfort.
C. Oral rehydration solution (ORS): This is the correct answer. Oral rehydration solution is specifically designed to replace lost fluids and electrolytes in cases of gastroenteritis. It contains the right balance of salts and sugars to facilitate effective absorption in the intestines and help rehydrate the body. ORS is the recommended fluid for managing dehydration caused by gastroenteritis in children.
D. Water: While water is essential for hydration, it is not enough to effectively treat dehydration caused by gastroenteritis. Plain water does not contain the necessary electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are lost during episodes of diarrhea and vomiting. Giving water alone may not adequately rehydrate the child and could potentially worsen the dehydration.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the production and function of certain glands, particularly those that produce mucus and sweat. One of the key aspects of CF management is addressing the pancreatic insufficiency that occurs in many individuals with CF. Due to the impairment of the pancreas, children with CF may have difficulty digesting food properly, especially fats. This can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, poor weight gain, and other nutritional deficiencies.

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is a crucial part of CF management. Pancreatic enzymes are prescribed to help the child digest and absorb essential nutrients, especially fats. The enzymes are typically given with each meal and snack to aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

The other options are not correct:

A. "We will restrict the amount of salt in our child's food."

Sodium restriction is generally not a focus in CF management unless there are specific indications for it. CF patients may have increased salt losses in sweat, but dietary sodium restriction is not a primary aspect of their care.

B. "I will limit my child's fluid intake."

Fluid intake is important for children with CF to maintain hydration and prevent dehydration. There is no specific need to limit fluid intake unless there are individualized medical reasons for doing so.

C. "I will prepare low-fat meals with limited protein for my child."

Children with CF often require a high-calorie, high-protein diet to maintain adequate nutrition and growth. Restricting fat and protein intake is not typically recommended, as these nutrients are essential for a child's development and well-being. Instead, pancreatic enzymes are used to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats and other nutrients.