The nurse is caring for a 4-month-old infant in the emergency department. The nurse reviews the infant's medical record and assessment findings. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect, and what actions should the nurse take to address that condition, and what parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the infant's progress?

The nurse should suspect that the infant has

Choice A reason: Herpes simplex is a viral infection that causes painful blisters or ulcers in the mouth or on the lips. It does not cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice B reason: Dermatitis is a skin inflammation that causes redness, itching, and scaling. It does not affect the mouth or cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice C reason: Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the squamous cells that line the mouth and other parts of the body. It causes a hard, irregular, or ulcerated growth that may bleed or become infected. It does not cause a white, milky plaque that does not come off with rubbing.

Choice D reason: Candidiasis, also known as oral thrush, is a fungal infection that causes a white, milky plaque that coats the tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth. It can be scraped off, but may leave a red, sore, or bleeding surface. It is more common in people who have a weakened immune system, such as those who take antibiotics, immunosuppressants, or corticosteroids. It can also be triggered by smoking, dry mouth, or poor oral hygiene.

Choice A reason: This is not a statement that indicates a need for further teaching. The client is doing wheelchair exercises while watching TV, which is a good way to maintain physical activity and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures. The nurse should praise the client for this behavior and encourage them to continue.

Choice B reason: This is not a statement that indicates a need for further teaching. The client is carrying a water bottle with them and drinking a lot of water, which is a good way to prevent dehydration and urinary tract infections. The nurse should praise the client for this behavior and remind them to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

Choice C reason: This is not a statement that indicates a need for further teaching. The client is using a suppository every night to have a bowel movement, which is a common method of managing bowel dysfunction in clients with spina bifida. The nurse should ask the client about their bowel routine and provide any additional education or support as needed.

Choice D reason: This is a statement that indicates a need for further teaching. The client is only catheterizing themselves twice every day, which is not enough to prevent urinary retention and infection. The nurse should explain to the client that they need to catheterize themselves at least every 4 to 6 hours, or as prescribed by the provider. The nurse should also demonstrate the proper technique and hygiene for catheterization and assess the client's ability to perform it.