A parent tells a nurse that her toddler drinks a quart of milk a day and has a poor appetite for solid foods. The nurse should explain that the toddler is at risk for which of the following disorders?

Consuming a large amount of milk, such as a quart a day, can lead to iron deficiency anemia in toddlers. Milk is a poor source of iron, and excessive milk intake can displace other iron-rich foods from the toddler's diet.

Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce enough hemoglobin, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Toddlers are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency anemia because they have increased iron needs for growth and development.

Option A (Obesity) and option B (Diabetes mellitus) are not directly related to the toddler's milk consumption. Obesity may be a concern if the child consumes excessive calories overall, but it is not specifically associated with milk intake. Similarly, diabetes mellitus is not directly related to milk consumption.

Option D (Rickets) is caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, not iron. Rickets results in weakened and deformed bones, and it is usually associated with inadequate sunlight exposure and insufficient dietary vitamin D. While milk is often fortified with vitamin D, excessive milk intake can displace other vitamin D sources in the diet and contribute to an increased risk of rickets, but the primary concern with excessive milk intake is iron deficiency anemia.

The nurse should clarify the prescription to administer sodium biphosphate/sodium phosphate because it is a laxative and is contraindicated in a child with suspected appendicitis. The use of laxatives or enemas can potentially worsen the condition by increasing the risk of perforation or rupture of the inflamed appendix.
A. Monitoring oral temperature every 4 hours is important to assess for signs of infection or worsening condition.
C. Maintaining NPO status is essential to avoid stimulating the digestive system and to prepare for possible surgery.
D. Medicating the client for pain every 4 hours as needed is appropriate to manage pain and provide comfort while the child awaits further evaluation or treatment.
Remember, it's crucial to avoid the use of laxatives, enemas, or any other interventions that can potentially aggravate the inflamed appendix in a child with suspected appendicitis.