A nurse is providing fluid replacement therapy to a dehydrated child.
What should the nurse do to ensure comprehensive care during the treatment and management of dehydration in children?

Choice A rationale:

Lethargy and muscle weakness are common signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.

Dehydration can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which affects muscle function and overall energy levels.

Choice B rationale:

Increased appetite and hyperactivity are not typical signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.

Dehydration often leads to a decreased appetite and lethargy.

Choice C rationale:

Shortness of breath and coughing are not directly related to electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.

These symptoms are more likely to be associated with respiratory or pulmonary issues rather than dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Excessive thirst and urination are common signs of dehydration but are not indicative of electrolyte imbalances.

These symptoms occur as the body attempts to compensate for fluid loss by increasing thirst and increasing urine output.

Electrolyte imbalances are more likely to manifest as muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.

Communicate with the healthcare team.

To ensure comprehensive care during the treatment and management of dehydration in children, communication with the healthcare team is essential.

Here's the rationale for this choice:

Choice A rationale:

Administer electrolyte solutions only.

This is not The correct approach.

While administering electrolyte solutions is a vital part of managing dehydration, it is not the only aspect of care.

Comprehensive care also includes assessing the child's overall condition, monitoring vital signs, and addressing any underlying causes of dehydration.

Choice B rationale:

Communicate with the healthcare team.

This is The correct answer.

Dehydration management often requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Communicating with the healthcare team, which may include physicians, dietitians, and other specialists, is crucial to ensure that the child receives appropriate treatment and that any underlying medical issues are addressed.

It also allows for coordinated care and adjustment of the treatment plan as needed.

Choice C rationale:

Rely solely on clinical signs to assess hydration status.

Relying solely on clinical signs is not sufficient for comprehensive care.

While clinical signs are important indicators of hydration status, laboratory tests and monitoring are also necessary to accurately assess and manage dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Skip monitoring the child's response to treatment.

Skipping monitoring is not advisable.

Monitoring the child's response to treatment is a critical part of dehydration management.

It helps ensure that the child is improving, and adjustments can be made to the treatment plan if necessary.