A nurse is caring for an infant who has gastroenteritis.
Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Sunken fontanels and dry mucous membranes
Temperature 38° C (100.4° F) and pulse rate 124/min.
Decreased appetite and irritability.
Pale and a 24-hr fluid deficit of 30 mL.
The Correct Answer is A
These are signs of severe dehydration in an infant, which can be life-threatening and should be reported to the provider immediately. The infant may need intravenous fluids and electrolytes to restore hydration and prevent complications.
Choice B is wrong because a temperature of 38° C (100.4° F) and pulse rate of 124/min are not abnormal for an infant and do not indicate severe dehydration. These are common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite.
Choice C is wrong because decreased appetite and irritability are also common findings in an infant who has gastroenteritis, but they do not indicate severe dehydration. The nurse should encourage oral rehydration with fluids such as breast milk, formula, or oral electrolyte solution.
Choice D is wrong because pale skin and a 24-hr fluid deficit of 30 mL are not signs of severe dehydration in an infant.
A fluid deficit of 30 mL is less than 1 oz and is not significant for an infant who weighs about 10 kg (22 lbs). A fluid deficit of more than 10% of body weight would indicate severe dehydration.
Normal ranges for vital signs in infants are as follows:
- Temperature: 36.5° C to 37.5° C (97.7° F to 99.5° F)
- Pulse rate: 100 to 160/min
- Respiratory rate: 30 to 60/min
- Blood pressure: 65/41 to 100/50 mm Hg
Normal ranges for fluid intake and output in infants are as follows:
- Fluid intake: 100 to 150 mL/kg/day
- Fluid output: 1 to 2 mL/kg/hr
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: “We can review some information to help you select a safe alternative practitioner.” This statement shows respect for the client’s interest in alternative therapies and offers guidance on how to choose a reliable and qualified provider. Alternative therapies can provide some benefits for people with rheumatoid arthritis, such as reducing pain, inflammation, and stiffness, but they should be used as a complement to conventional treatments and not as a substitute.
Choice B is wrong because it implies that the client has no role in deciding their own treatment plan and that alternative therapies are not worth considering.
This may discourage the client from sharing their preferences and concerns with the provider.
Choice C is wrong because it suggests that online support groups are a reliable source of information about alternative remedies, which may not be true.
Online sources may contain inaccurate, misleading, or harmful information that could jeopardize the client’s health and safety.
Choice D is wrong because it encourages the client to try any therapy that fits their personal belief system, without considering the evidence, effectiveness, or potential risks of such therapies. Some alternative therapies may interact with medications, cause side effects, or worsen the condition.
Normal ranges for rheumatoid arthritis are not applicable in this question, as it is not asking about laboratory values or disease activity measures. However, some common tests used to diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis include erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Creactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, and joint ultrasound or X-ray.
The normal ranges for these tests may vary depending on the laboratory and the method used.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Continuously monitor the child’s respiratory status. This is because epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that can cause severe airway obstruction and respiratory distress in children. The nurse should monitor the child for signs of worsening breathing, such as stridor, cyanosis, restlessness, or drooling. The nurse should also be prepared to assist with intubation or tracheostomy if needed.
Choice A is wrong because assessing the child for frequent swallowing may increase the risk of vomiting and aspiration. Swallowing may also be difficult and painful for the child due to the inflammation of the epiglottis.
Choice C is wrong because suctioning the child’s oropharynx may cause more swelling and irritation of the epiglottis, or trigger a spasm that can close off the airway. The nurse should avoid any stimulation of the throat or mouth that may worsen the condition.
Choice D is wrong because administering pancreatic enzymes with meals is not relevant to epiglottitis. Pancreatic enzymes are used to treat cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Epiglottitis is caused by a bacterial infection or an injury to the throat.
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