nurse is caring for a child on the oncology unit. The child's parents are asking the nurse about the cancer diagnosis. Which of the follow information should the nurse provide the parents about the most common malignant renal and intra-abdominal tumor of childhood?

Answer: D. Maintains a dry dressing over the sac

A. Places the infant in a side-lying position.
Placing the infant in a side-lying position is not the most appropriate action for a child with myelomeningocele. It is often recommended to position infants in a supine (on their back) or prone (on their stomach) position to prevent pressure on the sac and facilitate optimal positioning for spinal alignment and care.

B. Takes an axillary temperature.
While taking an axillary temperature is a common practice for infants, it is not specific to the care of an infant with myelomeningocele. In fact, rectal temperatures are often preferred in clinical settings for more accurate readings in infants, particularly if there are concerns about infection or significant illness.

C. Performs range of motion on the infant's hips.
Performing range of motion exercises on the infant's hips may be appropriate for some infants but should be done cautiously in those with myelomeningocele. Depending on the extent of nerve damage, the infant may have limited mobility or lack sensation in the lower extremities, and inappropriate exercises could risk injury or further complications.

D. Maintains a dry dressing over the sac.
Maintaining a dry dressing over the sac is a critical action in the care of an infant with myelomeningocele. This condition involves a defect in the spinal column where the spinal cord and surrounding nerves protrude through the back, making the area susceptible to infection and injury. Keeping the dressing dry and intact protects the sac and prevents infection, indicating that the newly licensed nurse understands the importance of this essential nursing intervention.

A. Osteosarcoma: This is a type of bone cancer that often occurs in teenagers and young adults, but it’s not the most common malignant renal and intra-abdominal tumor of childhood.

B. Wilms’ tumor: This is the correct answer. Wilms’ tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is the most common malignant renal and intra-abdominal tumor of childhood. It typically occurs in children aged 3 to 4 years.

C. Neuroblastoma: This is a type of cancer that often starts in the adrenal glands, which are on top of the kidneys. It can also develop in nerve tissue along the spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis. While it is common in infants and young children, it’s not the most common malignant renal and intra-abdominal tumor of childhood.

D. Ewing sarcoma: This is a rare type of cancer that occurs in bones or in the soft tissue around the bones. It’s more common in teenagers and young adults, and it’s not the most common malignant renal and intra-abdominal tumor of childhood.