A nurse is caring for a client who has acute dehydration is receiving IV fluids. Which of the following laboratory values indicates to the nurse th the current treatment regimen is effective?

Correct Actions:

B. Test the pH of gastric aspirate.

Explanation: Testing the pH of gastric aspirate helps confirm that the NG tube is correctly positioned in the stomach. A pH of 4 or less generally indicates gastric placement. This step is crucial to avoid complications like aspiration and ensure proper feeding.

E. Check the tube's placement and patency.

Explanation: Ensuring that the tube is correctly positioned and patent (not blocked) is essential before administering feedings. This involves aspirating some of the gastric contents to confirm placement and flushing the tube with water to verify it is clear and functioning properly.

Incorrect Actions:

A. Discard residual gastric contents.

Explanation: While it is important to measure gastric residuals to assess the stomach's ability to handle the feeding, residuals are not discarded. Instead, they are measured and then returned to the stomach unless otherwise specified by the healthcare provider.

C. Auscultate sounds.

Explanation: Auscultation of bowel sounds is not typically required immediately before administering enteral feedings. However, assessing bowel sounds periodically can be part of overall monitoring to ensure proper gastrointestinal function.

D. Warm the formula to body temperature.

Explanation: Enteral feeding formulas are generally administered at room temperature, although some facilities may have specific protocols for warming. Most guidelines do not require warming formula to body temperature.

A.While broth can provide fluids and some electrolytes, it is often high in sodium and may not be balanced for a child with diarrhea. High sodium content can exacerbate dehydration and does not adequately replace the lost potassium.

B.Apple juice contains high levels of sugar and may worsen diarrhea by drawing water into the intestines. Additionally, the fructose in apple juice can be difficult to absorb and may lead to increased gastrointestinal discomfort.

C.Cherry gelatin provides fluids but contains sugar and artificial coloring, which are not ideal for rehydration. It does not have the necessary electrolytes that are lost during diarrhea.

D.Pedialyte is specifically formulated to replace fluids and electrolytes lost during episodes of diarrhea and vomiting. It helps prevent dehydration by providing an appropriate balance of electrolytes and fluids that are easily absorbed by the body.