A four-month-old infant is hospitalized for repair of a ventricular septal defect. The infant's admitting diagnosis is moderate congestive heart failure. If the infant's CHF worsens, the nurse may implement which of the following interventions, assuming an order was written?

Choice A reason: Clear liquids are not the best intervention for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Clear liquids are fluids that are transparent or translucent, such as water, broth, tea, or juice. They may provide some hydration, but they do not contain enough electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) to replace the losses from diarrhea. They may also worsen diarrhea by increasing the osmotic load in the gut.

Choice B reason: Absorbents such as kaolin and pectin are not recommended for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Absorbents are substances that bind to toxins, bacteria, or water in the gut, and are supposed to reduce the frequency and volume of stools. However, there is no evidence that they are effective or safe for children with diarrhea. They may also interfere with the absorption of other medications or nutrients.

Choice C reason: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the preferred intervention for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. ORS is a specially formulated solution that contains water, glucose, and electrolytes in the right proportions to replenish the losses from diarrhea. ORS can prevent or treat dehydration, and can also reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea. ORS is widely available, inexpensive, and easy to use. It should be given to children with diarrhea as soon as possible, and continued until the diarrhea stops.

Choice D reason: Antidiarrheal medications are not advised for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Antidiarrheal medications are drugs that slow down the movement of the gut, reduce the secretion of fluids, or kill the bacteria that cause diarrhea. However, they are not effective for viral diarrhea, which is the most common cause of diarrhea in children. They may also have serious side effects, such as constipation, abdominal pain, drowsiness, or allergic reactions. They may also mask the symptoms of more serious conditions, such as appendicitis or bowel obstruction.

Choice A reason: This statement does not best illustrate the developmental stage of an eighteen-year-old. Getting an A in a math exam is an academic achievement, but it does not reflect the psychosocial development of the individual.

Choice B reason: This statement does not best illustrate the developmental stage of an eighteen-year-old. Going to a senior prom is a social event, but it does not indicate the identity or role of the individual.

Choice C reason: This statement does not best illustrate the developmental stage of an eighteen-year-old. Having conflicts with parents is a common issue among adolescents, but it does not show the maturity or independence of the individual.

Choice D reason: This statement best illustrates the developmental stage of an eighteen-year-old. Going to college to become a nurse is a decision that reflects the individual's identity, career, and future goals. It also shows the individual's ability to plan ahead, make choices, and take responsibility for their life.