A nurse is caring for a preschooler who has epiglottitis from a streptococcal infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Avoid a diet consisting of primarily milk. Milk, especially cow’s milk, is low in iron and can inhibit iron absorption. Excessive milk consumption can also lead to iron deficiency anemia by displacing iron-rich foods from the diet and potentially causing gastrointestinal bleeding in infants. Limiting milk intake and ensuring a balanced diet can help prevent iron deficiency.

B. Include whole grains and legumes in the diet. Whole grains and legumes are good sources of nonheme iron, which is beneficial for preventing iron deficiency anemia. While this is a good dietary recommendation, infants might not consume enough of these foods to meet their iron needs without additional sources or supplements.

C. Administer fat-soluble vitamins daily. Rationale: Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are not directly related to preventing iron deficiency anemia. They are important for other aspects of health, but they do not address iron intake or absorption.

D. Limit intake of high-protein foods. Rationale: High-protein foods like meat are often rich in heme iron, which is easily absorbed and important for preventing anaemia. Limiting these foods would not be beneficial and might even contribute to anemia.

A. Brisk pupillary reaction to light: A brisk pupillary reaction to light is a normal neurological finding and does not indicate increased ICP. Increased ICP might present with a sluggish or unequal pupil response.

B. Irritability: Irritability is a common early sign of increased ICP in infants. Changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability or lethargy, can indicate a neurological problem, including increased pressure within the skull.

C. Tachycardia: Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is not a typical indicator of increased ICP. Bradycardia (decreased heart rate) is more commonly associated with increased ICP due to the pressure on the brainstem affecting autonomic functions.

D. Increased sensory response to painful stimuli: Increased sensory response is not typically indicative of increased ICP. In fact, as ICP worsens, a decrease in sensory response or altered level of consciousness is more likely.