A client inquires about the signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.
Which symptoms should the nurse mention?
"Lethargy and muscle weakness.”..
"Increased appetite and hyperactivity.”..
"Shortness of breath and coughing.”..
"Excessive thirst and urination.”..
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Lethargy and muscle weakness are common signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.
Dehydration can lead to an imbalance of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which affects muscle function and overall energy levels.
Choice B rationale:
Increased appetite and hyperactivity are not typical signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.
Dehydration often leads to a decreased appetite and lethargy.
Choice C rationale:
Shortness of breath and coughing are not directly related to electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.
These symptoms are more likely to be associated with respiratory or pulmonary issues rather than dehydration.
Choice D rationale:
Excessive thirst and urination are common signs of dehydration but are not indicative of electrolyte imbalances.
These symptoms occur as the body attempts to compensate for fluid loss by increasing thirst and increasing urine output.
Electrolyte imbalances are more likely to manifest as muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering oral rehydration solution (ORS) is a crucial nursing intervention for a dehydrated child.
ORS helps replenish the lost fluids and electrolytes, making it an effective treatment for dehydration.
Choice B rationale:
Keeping the child in a cold environment is not an appropriate intervention for a dehydrated child.
Dehydration is not related to room temperature, and maintaining a comfortable environment is important, but extreme cold could cause discomfort to the child.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the child's vital signs is an essential nursing intervention when caring for a dehydrated child.
Vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and temperature, can provide important information about the child's condition and hydration status.
Regular monitoring helps in assessing the child's progress and identifying any worsening symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Providing heavy meals at regular intervals is not an appropriate intervention for a dehydrated child.
As mentioned earlier, heavy meals can be difficult to digest and may worsen dehydration.
It is more important to focus on rehydration with fluids like ORS.
Choice E rationale:
Educating the child and caregivers about dehydration is an important nursing intervention.
Teaching them about the signs and symptoms of dehydration, the importance of ORS, and how to prevent it in the future is essential for the child's well-being and for preventing future episodes of dehydration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administer electrolyte solutions or supplements as prescribed by the physician.
Rationale: While administering electrolyte solutions or supplements may be part of the treatment plan for a dehydrated child, it is not the initial action that the nurse should take.
The first step should be to assess the child's condition and monitor their response to treatment.
Choice B rationale:
Monitor the child’s response to treatment and adjust the plan accordingly.
Rationale: This is The correct answer.
Dehydration is a complex condition, and the nurse's initial action should be to closely monitor the child's response to treatment, which may include oral or intravenous rehydration.
By monitoring the child's vital signs, urine output, and clinical signs, the nurse can make real-time adjustments to the treatment plan.
Choice C rationale:
Collaborate with physicians, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
Rationale: Collaboration with other healthcare professionals is important for the overall care of the child, but it is not the immediate action needed to correct electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.
Monitoring and treatment adjustments come first.
Choice D rationale:
Assess the degree of dehydration based on clinical signs and symptoms.
Rationale: While assessing the degree of dehydration is important, it should not be the only action taken.
Monitoring the child's response to treatment and adjusting the plan is equally crucial.
Dehydration assessment is typically part of the initial evaluation, but ongoing monitoring is necessary to ensure the child's condition improves.
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