The mother of a 1-month-old infant tells the nurse she worries that her baby will get meningitis like the child's older brother had when he was an infant. The nurse should base her response on which of the following?

A. Assess the bowel sounds:

Bowel sounds are not directly related to the assessment of ascites. Bowel sounds are more relevant in assessing gastrointestinal function and peristalsis. While bowel changes could potentially be a sign of complications, monitoring abdominal girth is more specific to tracking ascites.

B. Frequently ambulate child:

While ambulation is important for overall health, it's not a direct assessment method for monitoring ascites. Ambulating a child might have benefits, but it won't provide specific information about the presence or progression of ascites.

C. Weigh child weekly:

Weekly weighing can provide some information about overall fluid balance, but it might not be as sensitive as measuring abdominal girth when it comes to detecting changes in ascites. Additionally, monitoring weight alone might not give insight into the distribution of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

D. Monitor and measure the abdominal girth.

Explanation: The presence of ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) in a child with nephrotic syndrome could indicate worsening kidney function and fluid balance. Monitoring and measuring the abdominal girth is a reliable way to assess changes in the amount of fluid accumulation over time. An increase in abdominal girth could suggest a worsening condition.

A) Low-protein, low-potassium diet:

While low-protein and low-potassium diets can be appropriate for certain kidney conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, they are not typically the primary focus in the acute phase of glomerulonephritis. Protein restriction might be considered if there is significant kidney damage, and potassium levels are elevated.

B) Low-sodium fluid-restricted diet:

This is the most appropriate option. In acute glomerulonephritis, the kidneys' ability to regulate sodium and fluid balance may be impaired due to inflammation and decreased glomerular filtration. Fluid retention and peripheral edema are common. A low-sodium diet helps reduce fluid retention and manage edema.

C) Low carbohydrate, low-protein diet:

Low-carbohydrate and low-protein diets are not the main dietary considerations for acute glomerulonephritis. The primary focus is on managing sodium and fluid intake due to impaired kidney function.

D) Regular diet, no added salt:

A regular diet without added salt might exacerbate the fluid retention and edema associated with acute glomerulonephritis. Sodium intake needs to be controlled to prevent further fluid buildup.