A nurse is caring for a child with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
The nurse knows that maintaining a patent airway is crucial in the management of this condition.
The child’s mother asks the nurse, “What can I do to help my child breathe better?” Which of the following responses by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV is most common in winter and early spring, not summer and fall.

Stating this misinformation would not effectively educate the parents about RSV prevention during the high-risk months.

Choice B rationale:

This is The correct answer.

RSV does occur in yearly outbreaks, especially in winter and early spring.

By emphasizing this, the nurse educates parents about the specific periods when they should take extra precautions to prevent RSV transmission.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV is indeed seasonal, with higher incidence during the winter and early spring months.

Denying its seasonality would provide inaccurate information to the parents.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

RSV primarily affects infants and young children, not adults.

Providing this misinformation would not help parents understand the risks associated with RSV for their children.

Choice A rationale:

This is The correct answer because it addresses the client's concern about dehydration.

Infants and young children with RSV infection are at risk of dehydration due to increased respiratory effort, fever, and decreased oral intake.

Encouraging oral fluids or providing intravenous fluids as prescribed helps prevent dehydration, ensuring the child remains hydrated during the illness.

Choice B rationale:

While adequate fluid intake is essential, stating a specific quantity like 8 glasses of water a day is not appropriate for infants and young children.

The fluid requirements vary based on the child's age, weight, and overall health condition.

Providing a specific quantity without proper assessment can be misleading and may not meet the child's individual needs.

Choice C rationale:

Limiting the child's fluid intake to prevent overhydration is not the primary concern in this context.

Dehydration due to increased respiratory effort and decreased oral intake is a more significant concern.

Adequate hydration is crucial in preventing complications associated with dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Restricting the child to clear liquids only is not appropriate, especially in the context of RSV infection.

While clear liquids are essential, they may not provide adequate nutrition.

Maintaining appropriate oral intake, which includes a variety of fluids and, if possible, nutritionally balanced foods, is important for the child's overall well-being during the illness.