Which therapeutic management should the nurse prepare to initiate first for a child with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration?

Oral rehydration solution (ORS)

Antidiarrheal medications such as paregoric

Clear liquids

Adsorbents, such as kaolin and pectin

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason:

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the first-line treatment for children with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration. ORS contains a precise balance of electrolytes and glucose, which helps to rehydrate the child effectively by promoting the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend ORS as the preferred treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. It is effective, easy to administer, and can be given at home or in a healthcare setting.

Choice B reason:

Antidiarrheal medications such as paregoric are not recommended for children with acute diarrhea. These medications can slow down the movement of the intestines, which may prolong the infection and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, they do not address the underlying cause of dehydration. The primary goal in managing acute diarrhea is to rehydrate the child, which is best achieved with ORS.

Choice C reason:

Clear liquids, such as water, broth, or diluted fruit juices, can be used to provide some hydration, but they do not contain the necessary electrolytes to effectively treat moderate dehydration. Clear liquids alone are not sufficient to replace the lost electrolytes and fluids caused by diarrhea. ORS is specifically formulated to address these needs and is more effective in rehydrating the child.

Choice D reason:

Adsorbents, such as kaolin and pectin, are not recommended for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children. These substances can bind to the contents of the intestines and may reduce the frequency of stools, but they do not address the underlying dehydration. The primary focus should be on rehydration with ORS, which provides the necessary electrolytes and fluids to restore the child’s hydration status.

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Correct Answer is ["2"]

Explanation

Calculation Steps

Step 1: Determine the total urine output in mL.

Total urine output = 360 mL

Step 2: Determine the child’s weight in kg.

Weight = 15 kg

Step 3: Determine the time period in hours.

Time = 12 hours

Step 4: Calculate the urine output in mL/kg/hour.

Urine output (mL/kg/hour) = Total urine output ÷ (Weight × Time)

Step 5: Perform the multiplication inside the parentheses first.

Weight × Time = 15 kg × 12 hours = 180 kg·hours

Step 6: Perform the division.

Urine output (mL/kg/hour) = 360 mL ÷ 180 kg·hours = 2 mL/kg/hour

Result

The child’s urine output is 2 mL/kg/hour.

A. Fluid intake B. Urine output C. Capillary refill D. Number of stools

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Assessing fluid intake is important in managing dehydration, but it is not the most critical assessment before initiating an IV infusion containing potassium chloride (KCL). Fluid intake provides information about the child’s hydration status but does not directly indicate kidney function. Since potassium can cause hyperkalemia if not properly excreted, monitoring urine output is more crucial.

Choice B reason:

Urine output is the most important assessment before initiating an IV infusion containing potassium chloride (KCL). This is because adequate urine output indicates that the kidneys are functioning properly and can excrete excess potassium. Administering potassium chloride without ensuring proper kidney function can lead to hyperkalemia, a potentially life-threatening condition. Therefore, checking urine output is essential to prevent complications.

Choice C reason:

Capillary refill is a useful assessment for evaluating peripheral perfusion and hydration status. However, it does not provide direct information about kidney function or the body’s ability to excrete potassium. While capillary refill can be part of the overall assessment, it is not the most critical factor before administering an IV infusion with potassium chloride.

Choice D reason:

The number of stools is relevant in assessing dehydration, especially if the child has been experiencing diarrhea. However, like fluid intake, it does not directly indicate kidney function. Monitoring urine output is more important before administering potassium chloride to ensure the kidneys can handle the additional potassium load.

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Which therapeutic management should the nurse prepare to initiate first for a child with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A 15 kg child has a urine output of 360 mL during the past 12 hours. Calculate the child’s urine output in mL/kg/hour for this period of time. (Do not enter units).

Correct Answer is ["2"]

Explanation

What assessment should the nurse make before initiating an IV infusion of dextrose in normal saline solution with 20 mEq KCL per liter for a child hospitalized with dehydration?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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