A nurse is caring for a newborn who has hydrocephalus.
Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect to find?

The correct answer is D. My child will take the enzymes to help digest the fat in foods.

Choice A rationale

Taking pancreatic enzymes following meals is not effective. The enzymes need to be taken with meals to aid in the digestion of food as it is being consumed.

Choice B rationale

Pancreatic enzymes are not taken to improve metabolism. They are specifically prescribed to aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in children with cystic fibrosis.

Choice C rationale

Taking pancreatic enzymes 2 hours before meals is not effective. The enzymes need to be taken with meals to ensure they are present in the digestive tract when food is being digested.

Choice D rationale

Taking pancreatic enzymes helps digest the fat in foods. Children with cystic fibrosis have difficulty digesting fats due to the thick mucus that blocks the pancreatic ducts, preventing the release of digestive enzymes

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale

While discipline is an important aspect of parenting, the nurse’s response should focus on normalizing the child’s behavior and providing reassurance to the parent. Discussing discipline methods may not address the parent’s immediate concern about temper tantrums.

Choice B rationale

Suggesting that some children have more difficult personalities and recommending parenting books may not provide the immediate reassurance and understanding the parent needs. It is important to normalize the child’s behavior and explain that temper tantrums are a normal part of development.

Choice C rationale

Toddlers are beginning to develop a sense of autonomy and independence, which can lead to temper tantrums as they assert their desires and preferences. Explaining that temper tantrums are normal during this stage of development helps reassure the parent and provides a better understanding of their child’s behavior.

Choice D rationale

While diet can play a role in behavior, the nurse’s response should focus on normalizing the child’s behavior and providing reassurance. Discussing diet may not address the parent’s immediate concern about temper tantrums and difficult behaviors.