A nurse is caring for a 1-year-old child who has been hospitalized.
Which of the following items in the child’s room is a common source of health care-associated infection?

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale

Vomiting can occur in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis, but it is not the most specific finding.

Choice B rationale

Hypertension is not typically associated with necrotizing enterocolitis.

Choice C rationale

A rounded abdomen is a common finding in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis due to intestinal swelling and gas accumulation.

Choice D rationale

Tachypnea can occur, but it is not as specific as a rounded abdomen.

Choice A rationale: Pyelonephritis is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects the kidneys. It is a serious condition that can occur when bacteria from a lower urinary tract infection, such as a bladder infection, travel up to the kidneys. The toddler’s history of multiple UTIs and current symptoms, including fever and lethargy, suggest that the infection may have progressed to the kidneys. Pyelonephritis can cause significant kidney damage if not treated promptly.

Choice B rationale: Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts can lead to kidney enlargement and impaired kidney function over time. However, this condition is not typically associated with recurrent UTIs or vesicoureteral reflux. The toddler’s symptoms and medical history do not indicate the presence of polycystic kidney disease.

Choice C rationale: Renal scarring can occur as a result of recurrent UTIs and vesicoureteral reflux. When urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys, it can cause repeated infections and inflammation, leading to scarring of the kidney tissue. Renal scarring can impair kidney function and increase the risk of chronic kidney disease. The toddler’s history of UTIs and vesicoureteral reflux puts them at risk for developing renal scarring.

Choice D rationale: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by excessive protein loss in the urine, leading to low blood protein levels, swelling, and increased cholesterol levels. It is not typically associated with recurrent UTIs or vesicoureteral reflux. The toddler’s symptoms and medical history do not suggest nephrotic syndrome.

Choice E rationale: Acute glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys. It can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or other conditions. While it can lead to kidney damage, it is not typically associated with recurrent UTIs or vesicoureteral reflux. The toddler’s symptoms and medical history do not indicate acute glomerulonephritis.