The parents of a child with acid-base imbalance ask the nurse about mechanisms that regulate acid-base balance. Which statement by the nurse accurately explains the mechanisms regulating acid-base balance in children?

The scenario describes a 14-year-old male who seems to be always eating, but his weight is appropriate for his height. In this case, it is important to reassure the parents that the behaviour may not necessarily be a cause for concern.

Option A provides an accurate response by explaining that for weight gain to occur, the individual would need to consume an excessive number of calories. Since the adolescent's weight is appropriate for his height, it suggests that his caloric intake is likely balanced and not excessive.

suggesting that he is substituting food for unfilled needs in (option B) is incorrect because it, is speculative and may not be accurate without further assessment or evidence. It is important to avoid making assumptions about underlying psychological or emotional reasons for increased eating without more information.

stating that this is normal due to an increase in body mass during this time in (option C) is incorrect because it, is not necessarily applicable to the scenario. While it is true that adolescents experience growth and changes in body composition during this period, it does not directly explain the constant eating behaviour described.

suggesting that this behaviour is abnormal and indicative of possible future obesity in (option D) is incorrect because it, may be premature and unsupported based solely on the information provided. It is essential to avoid making predictions or assumptions about future health outcomes without proper evaluation.

By providing the parents with information about the caloric intake required for weight gain and reassuring them that their son's eating behaviour may be within a normal range, the nurse can address their concerns and provide accurate guidance. If the parents have further concerned or questions, it may be appropriate to refer them to a healthcare provider for a more comprehensive assessment.

The statement that best describes why infants are at greater risk for dehydration than older children is option B. Infants have an increased extracellular fluid volume compared to older children. This means that a larger proportion of their total body fluid is located outside the cells, in the extracellular compartment. This higher extracellular fluid volume makes infants more susceptible to fluid losses and dehydration if they experience inadequate fluid intake or increased fluid losses.

infants have an increased ability to concentrate urine in (option A), is incorrect. Infants have limited renal function and may have difficulty concentrating urine compared to older children and adults. This can contribute to a higher risk of dehydration in infants.

infants have a greater volume of intracellular fluid in (option C), is incorrect. The volume of intracellular fluid is not the primary factor contributing to the increased risk of dehydration in infants.

infants have a smaller body surface area in (option D) is incorrect because it, is not directly related to the increased risk of dehydration. Body surface area influences heat exchange and fluid loss through sweating but is not the main factor contributing to the higher risk of dehydration in infants.