A nurse in a provider's office is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a school-age child who has pediculosis capitis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Polyuria (frequent urination) is a hallmark symptom of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. It occurs because elevated blood glucose levels exceed the renal threshold, leading to osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid loss. Children experiencing hypoglycemia do not typically present with increased urination.

B. Dry mucous membranes are a sign of dehydration, which can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or prolonged hyperglycemia due to fluid loss. Hypoglycemia does not cause dehydration; instead, the child may appear clammy and moist due to sweating.

C. Fruity or acetone-smelling breath is associated with DKA, resulting from ketone accumulation due to uncontrolled hyperglycemia. This symptom does not occur in hypoglycemia, which is characterized by low blood glucose without ketone buildup.

D. Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) is a classic sign of hypoglycemia, caused by sympathetic nervous system activation in response to falling blood glucose levels. Additional symptoms include tremors, palpitations, pallor, irritability, hunger, headache, and anxiety. These neurogenic and neuroglycopenic symptoms occur because the brain is highly dependent on glucose, and the body initiates counter-regulatory hormonal responses (epinephrine, glucagon) to raise blood sugar. Recognizing these signs early is critical to prevent severe hypoglycemia, seizures, or loss of consciousness.Top of FormBottom of Form

A. Warts on the hands, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), are generally benign and do not require a biopsy unless the lesion is atypical, rapidly growing, or has an unusual appearance. Routine biopsy is not indicated for common hand warts.

B. Warts are highly contagious, spreading through direct contact with the wart or contaminated surfaces. This statement is inaccurate and could lead to poor preventive measures.

C. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Warts are caused by HPV, a virus, so treatment usually involves topical agents, cryotherapy, or other procedures to remove or reduce the warts.

D. Common warts on the hands are generally painless, though they may cause discomfort if located on pressure points or if irritated. Education should include reassurance about the benign nature and typical lack of pain, as well as information on treatment options and contagiousness.