A nurse is caring for a child who has pertussis. The child's parent asks the nurse what the common name for this disease is. The nurse should respond with which of the following common names?

Choice A: Irregular respiratory rate is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be affected by many factors such as fever, infection, pain, or anxiety. An irregular respiratory rate can also indicate more severe dehydration or shock, which requires immediate intervention.

Choice B: Good skin integrity is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be maintained even in moderate dehydration. Good skin integrity does not reflect the fluid status of the body, as skin turgor and elasticity depend on other factors such as age, nutrition, and hydration.

Choice C: Blood pressure elevation is not a reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it can be caused by other conditions such as stress, anxiety, pain, or hypertension. Blood pressure elevation can also indicate more severe dehydration or shock, which requires immediate intervention.

Choice D: Body weight is the most reliable indicator of mild dehydration, as it reflects the fluid loss or gain of the body. A loss of 5% or more of body weight indicates mild dehydration in infants. Body weight should be measured daily and compared with the baseline weight to monitor the fluid status of the infant.

Choice A: Iron deficiency anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Toddlers who drink too much milk and eat too few solid foods may not get enough iron from their diet, as milk is a poor source of iron. Iron deficiency anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Choice B: Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin or use it properly, resulting in high blood glucose levels. Toddlers who drink too much milk and eat too few solid foods are not at increased risk for diabetes mellitus, as milk does not contain glucose and does not affect insulin secretion or action.

Choice C: Obesity is a condition in which the body has excess fat that can impair health and increase the risk of chronic diseases. Toddlers who drink too much milk and eat too few solid foods may be at risk for obesity, as milk is high in calories and fat and can displace other nutritious foods from their diet. However, obesity is not a disorder but a risk factor for other disorders.

Choice D: Rickets is a condition in which the bones become soft and weak due to a lack of vitamin D or calcium. Toddlers who drink too much milk and eat too few solid foods are not at risk for rickets, as milk is a good source of vitamin D and calcium and can prevent rickets.