A nurse is assessing a toddler for developmental milestones.
At what age should a child be able to build a tower of six cubes?

Choice A rationale

Nephrotic syndrome typically has a gradual onset of symptoms, developing over days to weeks, as protein loss in the urine accumulates. An abrupt onset is less characteristic.

Choice B rationale

Proteinuria, the presence of abnormally high levels of protein in the urine (normal range is less than 150 mg/24 hours), is a defining characteristic of nephrotic syndrome. Damage to the glomeruli in the kidneys leads to increased permeability and leakage of protein into the urine.

Choice C rationale

Hypoalbuminemia in the blood (normal range is 3.5 to 5.5 g/dL) is a key feature of nephrotic syndrome. The excessive loss of protein in the urine leads to a decrease in serum albumin levels.

Choice D rationale

Fever is not typically a primary symptom of nephrotic syndrome. While children with nephrotic syndrome can develop infections, fever is not a direct consequence of the underlying kidney dysfunction.

Choice E rationale

Hyperlipidemia, an elevated level of lipids (fats) in the blood (normal total cholesterol is less than 200 mg/dL), is commonly associated with nephrotic syndrome. The liver increases lipoprotein synthesis in response to the decreased serum albumin levels.

Choice F rationale

While a positive Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection can lead to post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which can sometimes present with nephrotic features, it is not a common finding directly associated with the primary diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome itself.

Choice G rationale

Anasarca, which is severe generalized edema characterized by widespread swelling due to fluid retention, is a common finding in nephrotic syndrome. The low serum albumin levels reduce oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, leading to fluid shifting into the interstitial spaces. .

Choice A rationale

Ensuring suction equipment is readily available is crucial for a child with a history of seizures because they are at an increased risk of aspiration during or immediately following a seizure. Suctioning helps to clear the airway of saliva, vomitus, or other secretions, preventing respiratory complications.

Choice C rationale

Padding the side rails of the child's bed provides a protective barrier against injury during a seizure. Tonic-clonic seizures involve sudden, uncontrolled muscle contractions that can cause the child to hit the side rails, potentially leading to bruising or more serious injuries. Padding helps to cushion these impacts.

Choice D rationale

Educating parents on how to administer rectal diazepam for breakthrough seizures at home empowers them to manage prolonged or clustered seizures promptly. Rectal diazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that can effectively stop a seizure, reducing the risk of status epilepticus, a medical emergency.