The nurse is caring for a 2-year-old who is lethargic and irritable after brain tumor surgery. She is noted to have dry mucous membranes and high urinary output. She has had 2 generalized seizures in the past hour. Which of the following is likely causing these symptoms?

A. Inspecting the mouth weekly for ulcerations is not sufficient. Children receiving chemotherapy should be encouraged to perform daily oral care, and any concerning symptoms should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider.

B. Using a potent commercial mouthwash is not recommended, as many commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol or other potentially irritating ingredients. A healthcare provider should recommend a suitable oral rinse if needed.

C. Clean the teeth manually with a soft toothbrush.

Children receiving chemotherapy are at risk of developing mouth sores (mucositis) and other oral complications. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to minimize the risk of infection and reduce discomfort. Using a soft toothbrush for gentle manual cleaning is recommended, as it helps to prevent injury to the sensitive oral tissues that can occur with a hard toothbrush.

D. Visiting a dental professional only during episodes of excessive bleeding or pain is not recommended. Regular dental check-ups are important for children receiving chemotherapy to monitor and address oral health issues. Waiting for symptoms of bleeding or pain may result in a delay in addressing potential problems.

Option A ("Considering the presence of diabetes but treating the child the same as the other children") is not the best approach because children with diabetes require individualized care and monitoring.

Option B ("Limiting fluid intake during school hours") is not an appropriate intervention and could potentially worsen the child's diabetes management. Hydration is important, and fluid intake should be based on the child's needs.

Option C. Asking the child each day what was eaten for breakfast.

Children with type 1 diabetes, especially those prone to morning hypoglycemic episodes, can benefit from close monitoring of their dietary choices and blood glucose levels. Asking the child what was eaten for breakfast allows the school nurse to assess whether the child had an appropriate meal and whether the insulin dosage may need adjustment. It helps identify potential factors contributing to hypoglycemia and provides valuable information for the child's diabetes management.

Option D ("Checking several times a day for injuries because of participation in the physical education program") is a good practice but does not specifically address the management of morning hypoglycemia. It is essential to monitor the child's safety during physical activities, but addressing breakfast choices and insulin management is more directly related to managing morning hypoglycemia.