A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a toddler who has poor dietary intake. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Rationale for Correct Options:

• Yellowing of the eyes: Indicates hepatotoxicity, a serious adverse effect of isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide. These drugs can cause liver damage, leading to jaundice, which presents as yellowing of the eyes and skin. Liver function tests should be monitored closely.
• Blurred vision: Can result from optic neuritis, a known adverse effect of ethambutol. Ethambutol can damage the optic nerve, causing visual disturbances, including decreased visual acuity and color blindness. Patients should undergo routine eye exams.
• Abdominal pain: May indicate hepatotoxicity from TB medications, particularly isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide. Liver inflammation or damage can manifest as right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. Monitoring liver enzymes is essential.
• Increased bruising: Can result from thrombocytopenia, a hematologic side effect of rifampin. Rifampin can suppress bone marrow function, leading to reduced platelet production, increasing the risk of spontaneous bruising and prolonged bleeding.
• Increased bleeding tendency: Suggests liver dysfunction, as the liver is responsible for producing clotting factors. Rifampin-induced hepatotoxicity can impair clotting mechanisms, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding from minor injuries.
• Darkening of the urine: A common but harmless side effect of rifampin. Rifampin is excreted in bodily fluids, causing orange or red discoloration of urine, sweat, and tears. Patients should be educated on this expected effect to prevent unnecessary concern.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• Dry eyes: Not associated with TB medications and may be due to environmental factors or dehydration.
• Weight gain: Unlikely with TB treatment, as these medications typically cause weight loss rather than weight gain.
• Insomnia: Not a significant adverse effect of first-line TB drugs and may be related to the client’s illness or other factors.
• Urinary frequency: Not a common reaction to TB medications, as these drugs do not significantly affect renal function or bladder activity.

A. "My child still wets the bed at least two times per week." Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) is common in young children, and while it can be concerning, it is not uncommon for a 4-year-old. Many children still experience bedwetting at this age, and it usually resolves over time.
B. "My child continually asks me the same questions." Continually asking the same questions can be typical for a 4-year-old, as children often seek clarification and reassurance through repetitive questioning. While it may be frustrating, it is generally not a sign of a serious issue.
C. "I have noticed that my child is withdrawn since we switched day care providers." Withdrawal can be a sign of emotional distress, anxiety, or adjustment issues related to the change in daycare. The nurse should further assess the child's emotional and behavioral responses to ensure they are receiving the appropriate support and intervention if needed.
D. "I have a difficult time getting my child to eat green vegetables." Getting the child to eat green vegetables is a common challenge among young children, as they often exhibit food preferences and may be picky eaters. While it is important to encourage healthy eating habits, this issue does not require immediate intervention compared to concerns about emotional withdrawal.