The nurse is preparing an adolescent for discharge after a cardiac catheterization. Which statement by the adolescent would indicate the need for further teaching?

The correct answer is choice C: Oral rehydration solution (ORS).

Choice A rationale:

Clear liquids, 1 to 2 ounces at a time, might not be sufficient to adequately rehydrate a child with severe dehydration. Clear liquids lack the necessary electrolytes and glucose content to effectively combat dehydration and replace lost fluids.

Choice B rationale:

Administration of antidiarrheal medication is not the initial step in managing severe dehydration caused by acute diarrhea and vomiting. Antidiarrheal medications can slow down the gastrointestinal motility, which may exacerbate the problem by delaying the elimination of the causative agent and prolonging the dehydration.

Choice C rationale:

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the recommended initial intervention for managing severe dehydration caused by acute diarrhea and vomiting. ORS contains the appropriate balance of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) and glucose to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, thereby helping to rehydrate the child effectively. It is absorbed even when digestion is impaired due to the illness.

Choice D rationale:

Intravenous fluids might be necessary if the child's condition is very severe and oral intake cannot be maintained. However, it's not the first-line intervention. Oral rehydration is preferred whenever feasible because it is less invasive and can be administered even in mild to moderate dehydration cases.

The correct answer is Choice B: Dry skin.

Choice A rationale:

Diarrhea is not a common clinical manifestation of juvenile hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to a decrease in metabolic activity. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and dry skin, but not diarrhea.

Choice B rationale:

Dry skin is a common clinical manifestation of juvenile hypothyroidism. The decreased thyroid function results in a slower metabolic rate, which can lead to dry and coarse skin due to reduced oil production. This symptom is often seen in hypothyroid patients.

Choice C rationale:

Insomnia is not a common clinical manifestation of juvenile hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism usually leads to fatigue and excessive sleepiness rather than insomnia.

Choice D rationale:

Accelerated growth is not a common clinical manifestation of juvenile hypothyroidism. In fact, the opposite is true. Hypothyroidism in children can lead to growth retardation due to the decreased metabolic rate and altered hormonal balance.