A nurse on a pediatric unit is preparing to admit a preschooler after receiving a transfer report from a nurse in the emergency department. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

Choice A reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Emphasizing the quantity, rather than the quality, of food consumed may lead to overeating, obesity, or malnutrition. The nurse should encourage the mother to offer a variety of healthy foods in appropriate portions and avoid forcing or bribing the child to eat.

Choice B reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Expecting that food consumption might not decrease significantly may cause the mother to ignore the signs of poor nutrition or growth in the child. The nurse should advise the mother to monitor the child's weight, height, and development regularly and consult the provider if there are any concerns.

Choice C reason: This is a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Adding fruit juice to the child's diet can increase the vitamin intake, especially vitamin C, which is important for immune function and wound healing. The nurse should recommend the mother to choose 100% fruit juice and limit the amount to 4 to 6 oz per day.

Choice D reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Having the child remain at the table after meals to increase food intake may create a negative association with eating and cause more resistance or frustration. The nurse should suggest the mother to make mealtime a pleasant and relaxed experience and respect the child's appetite and preferences.

Choice A reason: This statement shows that the parents understand that toddlers need a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from different food groups. The quality of food is more important than the quantity, as toddlers may have erratic eating patterns and may not consume large amounts of food at one time.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as toddlers typically have a decreased appetite compared to infants. This is due to their slower growth rate and increased interest in other activities. Parents should not force their toddlers to eat more than they want, but rather offer them healthy snacks and meals throughout the day.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as toddlers do not need vitamin supplements unless they have a specific deficiency or medical condition. Giving vitamins to a picky eater may not address the underlying causes of their food preferences, such as texture, taste, or appearance. Parents should encourage their toddlers to try new foods and avoid using food as a reward or punishment.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as toddlers do not need 3,000 calories per day. The average daily caloric intake for a toddler is about 1,000 to 1,400 calories, depending on their age, weight, and activity level. Parents should not overfeed their toddlers or give them high-calorie foods that may lead to obesity or malnutrition.