Which client on an acute care pediatric unit requires the nurse’s immediate attention?

Choice A rationale:
Abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation are not typical signs of pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis usually presents with non-bilious projectile vomiting, a palpable olive-shaped mass in the upper abdomen, and signs of dehydration.
Choice B rationale:
A rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds are characteristic signs of pyloric stenosis. The hypertrophied pyloric muscle obstructs the passage of food from the stomach to the duodenum, leading to gastric distention, visible peristalsis, and vomiting. The infant may appear hungry after vomiting and will continue to feed, leading to weight loss.
Choice C rationale:
Visible peristalsis and weight loss are consistent with pyloric stenosis. The visible peristalsis occurs as the infant tries to force the stomach contents through the narrowed pyloric sphincter. Weight loss is a result of poor feeding and vomiting.
Choice D rationale:
Distention of the lower abdomen and constipation are not typical findings in pyloric stenosis. Constipation suggests a lower gastrointestinal issue, while pyloric stenosis primarily affects the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Choice A rationale:
Weighing the infant every day on the same scale at the same time is crucial in monitoring excess fluid volume in congestive heart failure. Sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention, a common sign of worsening heart failure. Daily weight monitoring helps in early detection and timely intervention.
Choice B rationale:
Notifying the physician when weight gain exceeds more than 20 g/day might be too late for intervention. Daily weight monitoring is essential to detect trends and intervene promptly to manage excess fluid volume.
Choice C rationale:
Placing the infant in a car seat to minimize movement is not directly related to managing excess fluid volume in congestive heart failure. It is essential for safety during transportation but does not address the nursing diagnosis.
Choice D rationale:
Administering digoxin as ordered by the physician is a medical intervention for congestive heart failure. While important, the nursing diagnosis is related to excess fluid volume, and the focus should be on nursing interventions such as monitoring daily weights.