What should the nurse stress in a teaching plan for the mother of an 11-year-old diagnosed with ulcerative colitis?

Give small amounts of favorite fluids frequently to prevent dehydration.

Dehydration is a common complication of upper respiratory tract infections in infants, especially if they have a fever. Giving small amounts of fluids frequently can help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

Some additional information about the other choices are:

Choice A is wrong because tepid water baths are not recommended for fever reduction. They can cause shivering, which increases heat production and can raise the

temperature further. Instead, antipyretics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given as prescribed.

Choice B is wrong because food intake may be decreased due to poor appetite, difficulty breathing, or sore throat. Forcing food intake can cause vomiting or aspiration. Fluid intake is more important than caloric intake during an acute infection.

Choice C is wrong because heavy clothing can increase heat retention and discomfort. The infant should be dressed in light clothing and the room temperature should be comfortable.

This is because self-monitoring of blood glucose allows children to learn how their blood sugar levels change in response to different factors such as food, exercise, stress, and medication.

It also helps them to adjust their insulin doses and dietary intake accordingly. Self-monitoring of blood glucose can improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of complications.

Choice A is wrong because it is not a less expensive method of testing.

Self-monitoring of blood glucose requires a glucose meter, test strips, lancets, and a logbook, which can be costly for some families.

Choice B is wrong because it is not less accurate than laboratory testing.

Self-monitoring of blood glucose can provide accurate and reliable results if done correctly and regularly.

Laboratory testing is usually done periodically to measure the average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months (hemoglobin A1c).

Choice D is wrong because it implies that the parents are not involved in the child’s diabetes management.

Parents should still provide support and guidance to their children with diabetes, especially when they are young or newly diagnosed. Parents should also monitor their child’s blood glucose levels and help them with insulin administration if needed.