A nurse is caring for a 1-month-old infant who has manifestations of severe dehydration and a prescription for parenteral fluid therapy. The guardian asks, "What are the indication that my baby needs an IV?" Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Skin feels cool to the touch: Cool skin indicates poor peripheral perfusion, which can signal early hypovolemic shock in a child with burns. Prompt assessment and interventions, such as fluid resuscitation, are necessary.
• Capillary refill 3 seconds in left foot: Delayed capillary refill reflects compromised circulation and decreased tissue perfusion. Early recognition and intervention help prevent progression to shock.
• Blood pressure 102/50 mm Hg: Mild hypotension combined with tachycardia, cool skin, and delayed capillary refill suggests early hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening complication requiring immediate attention.
• Temperature 35.8° C (96.4° F): Hypothermia can occur due to heat loss from burn injuries, increasing the risk for coagulopathy, impaired wound healing, and further hemodynamic instability.
• Output of 25 mL dark amber urine through catheter: Low and concentrated urine output indicates possible dehydration or reduced renal perfusion, which can progress to acute kidney injury if not addressed urgently.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Respiratory rate 20/min: Although slightly decreased from admission, this is within a near-normal range for an 8-year-old and not immediately concerning. Continuous monitoring is appropriate, but it is not an urgent priority compared with perfusion and hemodynamic indicators.
• Dressing on left hand shows small amount of moisture through gauze: Minor moisture in the dressing may reflect mild wound exudate, which requires routine monitoring and dressing changes. It does not indicate an immediate life-threatening risk.

Rationale:

A. Dietitian: A dietitian focuses on nutritional needs, which may be beneficial if the client has dietary concerns, but this does not directly address mobility issues related to lower extremity weakness.

B. Physical therapy: Physical therapists specialize in improving strength, balance, and mobility. A referral will help the client develop exercises and strategies to enhance function and reduce fall risk.

C. Case manager: A case manager coordinates healthcare services, but they do not directly provide rehabilitation for weakness. They may be involved later to arrange additional resources after therapy needs are determined.

D. Social services: Social services assist with psychosocial needs, financial support, and community resources, but they are not the primary referral for addressing physical mobility limitations.