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.”..

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Thirst and dry mouth are common signs of dehydration in adults, but in pediatric patients, especially infants, the signs are different.

Children may not be able to communicate their thirst effectively, and dry mouth might not be as noticeable as other signs.

Choice B rationale:

Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure are symptoms of shock, which can occur in severe dehydration.

However, these symptoms are not specific to dehydration and can be present in other conditions.

Sunken eyes and fontanelle in infants are more specific indicators of dehydration in pediatric patients.

Sunken eyes occur due to loss of tissue turgor, and a sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on an infant's head) is a late sign of dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Lethargy and irritability can be signs of dehydration, but they are nonspecific and can occur in various pediatric conditions.

Sunken eyes and fontanelle, on the other hand, are more specific to dehydration, especially in infants.

A. Normal saline (0.9% NaCl). B. Half normal saline (0.45% NaCl). C. Lactated Ringer’s. D. D5W (5% dextrose in water).

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl).

Choice A rationale:

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl) is the most appropriate choice for a client with cerebral edema.

This isotonic solution is commonly used to maintain intravascular volume and provides a neutral effect on fluid balance in the brain.

It does not introduce additional electrolytes that could potentially worsen cerebral edema.

Choice B rationale:

Half normal saline (0.45% NaCl) is not the best choice for cerebral edema because it is hypotonic and may lead to cellular swelling, potentially exacerbating the edema.

Choice C rationale:

Lactated Ringer's, while isotonic, contains additional electrolytes and lactate.

In the case of cerebral edema, it is safer to use a solution with a simpler composition like normal saline to avoid any potential complications related to electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D rationale:

D5W (5% dextrose in water) is not recommended for cerebral edema because it contains dextrose and may not adequately address the underlying issue of increased intracranial pressure associated with cerebral edema.

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A client inquires about the signs of electrolyte imbalances in a dehydrated child.Which symptoms should the nurse mention?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

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Which symptoms should the nurse mention?