A nurse is charting that a hospitalized child has labored breathing. Which medical term describes labored breathing?

The correct answer is choice D: Low in phosphorus.

Choice A rationale:

Supplemented with vitamins A, E, and K is not the characteristic of the diet for a child with chronic renal failure. While vitamin supplementation might be necessary in some cases, the primary dietary considerations in chronic renal failure are related to managing electrolyte imbalances, fluid retention, and waste buildup due to compromised kidney function.

Choice B rationale:

High in protein is not the recommended characteristic of the diet for a child with chronic renal failure. Kidneys affected by chronic renal failure have a reduced ability to filter and excrete waste products from protein metabolism. Excessive protein intake can lead to the accumulation of nitrogenous waste products, potentially worsening the condition and contributing to uremia.

Choice C rationale:

Low in vitamin D is not the primary characteristic of the diet for a child with chronic renal failure. Vitamin D metabolism can be affected by kidney dysfunction, but the focus of the diet in chronic renal failure is primarily on managing electrolyte levels, particularly phosphorus and potassium, as well as controlling fluid intake.

Choice D rationale:

Low in phosphorus is the correct characteristic of the diet for a child with chronic renal failure. Impaired kidney function in chronic renal failure leads to difficulty in excreting phosphorus, which can result in elevated blood phosphorus levels. High phosphorus levels can contribute to bone and mineral disorders and cardiovascular complications. Therefore, a diet low in phosphorus is crucial to prevent these complications and manage the progression of the disease.

The correct answer is choice B. Administer supplemental oxygen before and after suctioning.

Choice A rationale:

Expect symptoms of respiratory distress when suctioning. While respiratory distress can occur during and after suctioning, it is not the main nursing consideration. The primary goal is to minimize any potential complications and ensure the child's safety during the procedure, which can be achieved by following appropriate guidelines.

Choice B rationale:

Administer supplemental oxygen before and after suctioning. Correct Answer. Administering supplemental oxygen before and after suctioning is crucial to maintain adequate oxygenation during and after the procedure. Suctioning can temporarily decrease oxygen levels and cause desaturation, especially in a child who has undergone heart surgery. Providing supplemental oxygen helps prevent hypoxia and supports respiratory function.

Choice C rationale:

Perform suctioning at least every hour. Frequent suctioning at least every hour is not a standard nursing practice, especially for a child who has had heart surgery. Suctioning should only be performed as needed based on the child's clinical condition, and excessive suctioning can irritate the airway and lead to complications.

Choice D rationale:

Suction for no longer than 30 seconds at a time. While limiting the duration of suctioning is important to prevent hypoxia and trauma to the airway, the specific duration of 30 seconds is not a universal rule. Suctioning should be performed for the shortest effective duration to minimize the risk of complications, but the optimal time can vary based on the child's condition and the type of suctioning being used.