A nurse is caring for a 3-year-old child who was admitted with acute diarrhea and dehydration. Which of the following findings indicates that oral rehydration therapy has been effective?

Choice A reason: Bacterial meningitis is a probable condition, as it is an infection of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, caused by various bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, or Haemophilus influenzae. The adolescent has many signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis, such as fever, headache, and neck stiffness.

Choice B reason: Viral meningitis is not a likely condition, as it is an infection of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, caused by various viruses, such as enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus, or mumps virus. The adolescent has some signs and symptoms of viral meningitis, such as fever, headache, and neck stiffness, but they are usually less severe than bacterial meningitis.

Choice C reason: Encephalitis is not a probable condition, as it is an inflammation of the brain tissue, usually caused by viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus, West Nile virus, or rabies virus. The adolescent has some signs and symptoms of encephalitis, such as fever, headache, and altered mental status, but they are usually accompanied by focal neurological deficits, such as seizures, paralysis, or cranial nerve palsies.

Choice D reason: Brain abscess is not a definite condition, as it is a collection of pus within the brain tissue, usually caused by bacterial infections that spread from other parts of the body, such as the ear, sinus, or lung. The adolescent has some signs and symptoms of brain abscess, such as fever, headache, and altered mental status, but they are usually accompanied by focal neurological deficits, such as seizures, paralysis, or cranial nerve palsies.

Choice A reason: A low-sodium diet is not recommended for a child who has Addison's disease, as they need more sodium to maintain their blood pressure and fluid balance. A high-sodium diet may be advised instead. ¹

Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not a common manifestation of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of cortisol, which normally raises blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is more likely to occur and should be monitored and treated. ²

Choice C reason: Fluid volume excess, or edema, is not a common complication of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of aldosterone, which normally retains sodium and water in the body. Fluid volume deficit, or dehydration, is more likely to occur and should be prevented and corrected. ³

Choice D reason: Cortisol replacement therapy is the main treatment for Addison's disease, as it helps restore the normal function of the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal crisis. The parents should be taught about the dosage, timing, and side effects of the medication, as well as the signs and symptoms of underdose and overdose. They should also be instructed to increase the dose during times of stress, illness, or injury, and to carry an emergency injection kit. ⁴.