A nurse in an outpatient clinic is caring for a school-age child who has cystic fibrosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor as the best indication of the child's nutritional status?
The child's BMI
The child's pancreatic enzyme dose
The child's diet
The child's stool analysis
The Correct Answer is A
A. The child's BMI: Children with cystic fibrosis often have difficulty absorbing nutrients due to pancreatic insufficiency. Monitoring the child's BMI provides a good overall indicator of nutritional status, as it accounts for both weight and height.
B. The child's pancreatic enzyme dose: While important, the enzyme dose is adjusted to help the child digest food, but it does not directly assess nutritional status.
C. The child's diet: The diet is important, but it doesn't provide a direct, quantifiable measure of nutritional status. It's more of a management tool.
D. The child's stool analysis: Stool analysis can help assess malabsorption, but it does not directly reflect overall nutritional status in terms of growth or weight gain.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will cook foods that are low in fat and carbohydrates.": Children with cystic fibrosis often require a high-calorie, high-fat diet to meet their increased energy needs.
B. "My child can chew their enzyme medication with meals.": Enzyme medications should not be chewed as they can irritate the oral mucosa; they should be swallowed whole or sprinkled on soft food.
C. "I will give my child stool softeners for constipation." Constipation is a common issue in cystic fibrosis due to thickened intestinal secretions. Stool softeners help prevent this complication.
D. "My child will be excused from physical education class.": Physical activity is encouraged for children with cystic fibrosis to improve lung function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Restrict the child's potassium intake. Potassium restriction is not typically required unless hyperkalemia is present.
B. Provide quiet activities for the child. Edema can cause fatigue, and quiet activities help conserve energy and reduce strain.
C. Weigh the child once a week. Daily weight monitoring is critical to track fluid retention or loss.
D. Administer acetaminophen to the child daily. Acetaminophen is not routinely required unless there is a specific indication, such as fever or pain.
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