A nurse is caring for a child who has red marks across his cheeks. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Herpes simplex is a viral infection that causes painful blisters or ulcers in the mouth or on the lips. It does not cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice B reason: Dermatitis is a skin inflammation that causes redness, itching, and scaling. It does not affect the mouth or cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice C reason: Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the squamous cells that line the mouth and other parts of the body. It causes a hard, irregular, or ulcerated growth that may bleed or become infected. It does not cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice D reason: Candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, is a fungal infection that causes a white, milky plaque that coats the tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth. It can be scraped off, but may leave a red, sore, or bleeding surface. It is more common in people who have a weakened immune system, such as those who take antibiotics, immunosuppressants, or corticosteroids. It can also be triggered by smoking, dry mouth, or poor oral hygiene.

Choice A reason: A low-sodium diet is not recommended for a child who has Addison's disease, as they need more sodium to maintain their blood pressure and fluid balance. A high-sodium diet may be advised instead. ¹

Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not a common manifestation of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of cortisol, which normally raises blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is more likely to occur and should be monitored and treated. ²

Choice C reason: Fluid volume excess, or edema, is not a common complication of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of aldosterone, which normally retains sodium and water in the body. Fluid volume deficit, or dehydration, is more likely to occur and should be prevented and corrected. ³

Choice D reason: Cortisol replacement therapy is the main treatment for Addison's disease, as it helps restore the normal function of the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal crisis. The parents should be taught about the dosage, timing, and side effects of the medication, as well as the signs and symptoms of underdose and overdose. They should also be instructed to increase the dose during times of stress, illness, or injury, and to carry an emergency injection kit. ⁴.