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?

Correct answers: A, C, D

A. Provide a stimulating environment for the client. A structured and stimulating environment can help maintain cognitive function and reduce restlessness or agitation. Activities such as music therapy, puzzles, or light exercise can be beneficial.

C. Limit the number of choices for the client. Too many choices can be overwhelming for a client with Alzheimer's disease, leading to frustration and anxiety. Providing limited and simple choices helps them feel more in control without confusion.

D. Use written signs to assist the client with locating the bathroom. Clients with Alzheimer's may have difficulty recognizing familiar places. Labeling key areas, such as the bathroom or bedroom, with clear written signs or pictures can help them navigate their environment independently.

Incorrect:

B. Use confrontation to manage the client's behavior. Confrontation can lead to increased agitation, anxiety, or aggression in clients with Alzheimer's. Instead, caregivers should use redirection, reassurance, and validation therapy to manage behaviors.

Isolate children who have varicella until the vesicles have formed crusts.

Isolating children who have varicella, also known as chickenpox, until the vesicles (blisters) have formed crusts is an important infection control measure. Varicella is highly contagious, and the fluid-filled vesicles can easily spread the virus to others. Keeping the child isolated until the vesicles have crusted over helps prevent the spread of the disease.

Children who have erythema infectious, commonly known as fifth disease in (option A) is incorrect because they, do not require short-term antibiotic therapy. Fifth disease is a viral infection caused by parvovirus B19 and is usually a self-limiting condition that resolves on its own without specific treatment.

Administration of childhood immunizations, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine in (option C) is incorrect because it, does not prevent exanthem subitem, also known as roseola infantum. Roseola infantum is usually a mild viral illness that primarily affects infants and young children. It is caused by human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) or human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) and is characterized by high fever followed by a rash.

Restricting fluids for children who have pertussis (whooping cough) in (option D) is not appropriate. In fact, it is important to encourage adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially in children who may have difficulty eating or drinking due to persistent coughing spells. Pertussis is a bacterial infection, and treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care.