Which activity is most appropriate for developing fine motor skills in the school-age child?

Choice A rationale:

Increased appetite is a common side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids are known to affect various metabolic processes, and one of the effects is an increase in appetite. This can lead to weight gain, especially when the increased calorie intake is not balanced by physical activity.

Choice B rationale:

Fever is not a typical side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids are often used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, which can help in managing conditions like autoimmune diseases, allergies, and inflammatory disorders. Fever is not a direct result of corticosteroid administration.

Choice C rationale:

Weight loss is not a common side effect of corticosteroid therapy. In fact, corticosteroids are more likely to cause weight gain due to their influence on appetite, metabolism, and fluid retention.

Choice D rationale:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can indeed be a side effect of corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids can lead to sodium and water retention, which can contribute to increased blood pressure, particularly in individuals who are already at risk for hypertension. However, among the options provided, increased appetite is a more directly associated side effect of corticosteroid therapy.

The correct answer is Choice A: Surgical removal of the affected section of bowel.

Choice A rationale:

Surgical removal of the affected section of bowel is the primary therapeutic management for most children with Hirschsprung's disease. Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital condition where there is a lack of nerve cells in a segment of the colon, leading to obstruction and dilation of the bowel. Surgical resection of the affected segment and reconnection of healthy bowel portions is the standard treatment to alleviate the obstruction and restore normal bowel function.

Choice B rationale:

Daily enemas might be used in some cases to manage symptoms temporarily, but they are not the primary therapeutic management for Hirschsprung's disease. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Permanent colostomy might be considered if the affected portion of bowel is extensive and cannot be safely reconnected after resection, but it's not the primary option for most children with Hirschsprung's disease.

Choice D rationale:

A low-fiber diet is not a therapeutic management for Hirschsprung's disease. Surgical intervention is necessary to address the underlying cause of obstruction, and diet modifications alone wouldn't resolve the condition.