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: This is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. A pressure dressing is applied to the site of the catheter insertion to prevent bleeding and hematoma formation. If the dressing is saturated with bloody drainage, it indicates that the bleeding is not controlled and may lead to hemorrhage or infection.

Choice B reason: This is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Pulses of the extremity where the catheter was inserted should be equal to or stronger than the other extremity. If the pulses are diminished, it indicates that there is impaired blood flow to the extremity, which may be caused by arterial occlusion, thrombosis, or vasospasm.

Choice C reason: This is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. The color and temperature of the extremity where the catheter was inserted should be similar to the other extremity. If the extremity is cool and pale, it indicates that there is inadequate perfusion to the extremity, which may be caused by the same factors as the diminished pulses.

Choice D reason: This is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Pain is an indicator of tissue damage or inflammation. The adolescent should have minimal or no pain after the procedure, as the site is numbed with local anesthesia. If the pain is present or increases, it indicates that there is a complication, such as bleeding, infection, or nerve injury.

Choice E reason: This is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. The apical pulse is the heart rate measured at the apex of the heart. It is a routine vital sign that the nurse should monitor after the procedure, but it is not a sign of a complication unless it is abnormal, such as too fast, too slow, or irregular. The nurse should compare the apical pulse with the baseline and the expected range for the adolescent's age and condition.

Choice A reason: Placing the client in a private room is not necessary for a client who has a high WBC count, unless they have other indications for isolation, such as an infectious disease. A high WBC count may indicate inflammation, infection, or other conditions that affect the immune system.

Choice B reason: Monitoring the client's temperature every 4 hr is an appropriate action for a nurse to take for a client who has a high WBC count. A fever is a common sign of infection or inflammation, and it may require further intervention, such as antibiotics or antipyretics.

Choice C reason: Administering an antihistamine as prescribed is not related to a high WBC count. Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions, which may cause a low WBC count due to the release of histamine from mast cells.

Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake is not specific to a high WBC count. Fluid intake should be based on the client's hydration status, urine output, and other factors. Increasing fluid intake may help flush out toxins or bacteria, but it is not a priority action for a client who has a high WBC count.