A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who has a prescription for clear liquids by mouth after a repair of an intussusception. Which of the following fluids should the nurse select for the infant?

Choice A reason: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the best fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it contains the optimal balance of electrolytes and glucose to prevent dehydration and restore fluid balance. ORS is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the management of diarrhea in children.

Choice B reason: Water is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it does not contain any electrolytes or glucose and can dilute the blood sodium level, leading to hyponatremia. Water can also increase the osmotic load in the intestines and worsen diarrhea.

Choice C reason: Broth is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it is high in sodium and can cause hypernatremia and dehydration. Broth can also irritate the intestinal mucosa and increase diarrhea.

Choice D reason: Diluted apple juice is not a good fluid for a child with acute gastroenteritis, as it is high in fructose and can cause osmotic diarrhea. Apple juice can also lower the blood pH and cause metabolic acidosis.

Choice A reason: This statement indicates a need for clarification, as sodium biphosphate/sodium phosphate is a laxative that can cause bowel perforation in a child with appendicitis. The nurse should question this prescription and avoid giving it to the child.

Choice B reason: This statement is correct, as maintaining NPO status is a standard intervention for a child with suspected appendicitis. It prevents further irritation of the appendix and prepares the child for possible surgery.

Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as monitoring oral temperature every 4 hours is a way to assess for signs of infection and inflammation in a child with suspected appendicitis. The nurse should also monitor for other symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and rebound tenderness.

Choice D reason: This statement is correct, as medicating the client for pain every 4 hours as needed is a way to provide comfort and relief for a child with suspected appendicitis. The nurse should use a pain scale to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and report any changes in the pain level or location.