A 2-month-old infant with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is receiving parenteral fluids for rehydration and decompression of the stomach while waiting for surgical repair. To maintain normal growth and development of the child during this period, which action should the nurse include in the plan of care?

A. A respiratory rate of 35 breaths/minute can be normal for a 2-year-old, so it is not necessarily indicative of distress by itself.

B. Flaring of the nares is a sign of increased work of breathing and is an indication of respiratory distress, as the child is using accessory muscles to breathe.

C. Diaphragmatic respirations are typical for young children and not indicative of distress unless other signs are present.

D. Bilateral bronchial breath sounds do not necessarily indicate respiratory distress and could be normal depending on the context.

A. Acetaminophen 650 mg PO every 6 hours for temperature greater than 101.0° F (38.3° C): While managing fever is important, it is not as immediate a priority as ensuring the client's breathing and hydration.

B. Start a peripheral IV: Establishing a peripheral IV line is crucial for administering medications and fluids. This is essential for the client's hydration and potential intravenous medication needs.

C. Chest x-ray: Although a chest x-ray is important for diagnosing the cause of the symptoms, it can be done after the client’s immediate needs for oxygen and IV access are addressed.

D. NPO: Keeping the client NPO is necessary, but it doesn't require immediate action compared to oxygenation and IV access.

E. Start oxygen 3 L/minute via nasal cannula: The client is experiencing difficulty breathing, so providing supplemental oxygen is a priority to ensure adequate oxygenation and alleviate respiratory distress.

F. Sputum culture: Obtaining a sputum culture is important for diagnosis, but it can wait until after the client is stabilized with oxygen and IV access.

G. Place the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor: Monitoring the client's cardiac and respiratory status is important, but ensuring oxygenation and IV access takes precedence.

H. Run 0.9% sodium chloride IV infusion at 150 mL/hour: While starting the IV infusion is important, it follows the establishment of the IV line and oxygen administration.