A nurse is caring for a child who is 2 hours postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following fluid items should the nurse offer the child at this time?

Choice A: Restraining the child's arms is not an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a child who is experiencing a seizure, as this can cause injury to the child or the nurse. Restraining the child's arms can also increase the child's anxiety and agitation, which can worsen the seizure.

Choice B: Using a padded tongue blade is not an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a child who is experiencing a seizure, as this can cause injury to the child's mouth, teeth, or tongue. Using a padded tongue blade can also increase the risk of choking or aspiration, which can compromise the child's airway.

Choice C: Attempting to stop the seizure is not an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a child who is experiencing a seizure, as this can be ineffective or harmful. Attempting to stop the seizure can also interfere with the natural course of the seizure, which may be necessary for the brain to recover.

Choice D: Positioning the child laterally is an appropriate action for a nurse to take when caring for a child who is experiencing a seizure, as this can help maintain the child's airway and prevent aspiration. Positioning the child laterally means placing the child on their side with their head tilted slightly forward and their mouth open.

Choice A: This statement is correct, as the mother should notify the doctor if the child's temperature is not controlled with acetaminophen, which is an antipyretic and analgesic medication that can lower fever and relieve pain. A high fever can increase the child's metabolic rate and insulin requirements, which can lead to hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis.

Choice B: This statement is incorrect, as the mother should check the child's blood sugar more frequently than two times every day, especially when the child is sick. An upper respiratory infection can cause inflammation and stress hormones, which can increase the child's blood sugar levels and insulin needs. The mother should monitor the child's blood sugar at least four times a day or more often if indicated by symptoms or ketone testing.

Choice C: This statement is correct, as the mother should encourage the child to drink half a cup of water or sugar-free fluids every 30 minutes, which can prevent dehydration and flush out excess glucose and ketones from the body. Dehydration can worsen hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis, which are serious complications of diabetes.

Choice D: This statement is correct, as the mother should report a change in the child's breathing or any signs of confusion, which can indicate respiratory distress or cerebral edema. Respiratory distress can occur due to hypoxia or acidosis, which can impair oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide elimination. Cerebral edema can occur due to fluid shifts or electrolyte imbalances, which can cause increased intracranial pressure and neurological impairment.