A mother visits her critically ill infant daily. Which comment most strongly suggests this mother is successfully progressing in attachment to her infant?

Choice A rationale:

Fever and hypertension are not typical findings in moderate dehydration. Dehydration often leads to hypotension rather than hypertension, and fever is not a direct consequence of dehydration.

Choice B rationale:

Increased specific gravity can be a sign of dehydration, but it is not as specific or sensitive as tachypnea (rapid breathing) and tachycardia (elevated heart rate), which occur due to the body's compensatory mechanisms in response to dehydration.

Choice C rationale:

Tachypnea and tachycardia are key indicators of moderate dehydration in infants. The body tries to maintain perfusion by increasing the heart rate and respiratory rate. These signs are more reliable indicators of dehydration than specific gravity or fever.

Choice D rationale:

Bulging posterior fontanel is not a typical finding in dehydration. A sunken fontanel might be more indicative of dehydration, as fluid shifts from the intracellular to the extracellular space.

Choice A rationale:

Returning to the hospital if the child spits up blood is a correct response as it indicates the recognition of potential postoperative bleeding.

Choice B rationale:

Giving the child cherry gelatin, even though it's the child's favorite, might not be appropriate after a tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy, as certain foods can irritate the healing throat.

Choice C rationale:

Returning to the hospital if the child develops difficulty breathing is a necessary step to address any respiratory distress.

Choice D rationale:

Having the child rinse her mouth frequently with water to prevent a bad breath odor is a suitable suggestion to maintain oral hygiene and comfort after surgery. In all three scenarios, the rationale for the correct answers revolves around patient safety, comfort, and appropriate post-operative care. The incorrect choices in each question either introduce potential complications, misunderstandings, or actions that might compromise the patient's well-being.