A nurse is caring for a 6-month-old infant who has gastroenteritis. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of severe dehydration?
Produces tears when crying
Sunken anterior fontanel
Weight loss of 5%
Capillary refill time 3 seconds
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Producing tears when crying is not typically a sign of severe dehydration. In fact, the ability to produce tears may suggest that the infant is not severely dehydrated.
Choice B reason: A sunken anterior fontanel is a classic sign of severe dehydration in infants. The fontanel, which is the soft spot on the top of a baby's head, can appear sunken when there is significant fluid loss.
Choice C reason: While weight loss can be a sign of dehydration, a 5% weight loss alone does not necessarily indicate severe dehydration. Other clinical signs should also be considered.
Choice D reason: A capillary refill time of 3 seconds is at the upper limit of normal. Prolonged capillary refill time can be a sign of dehydration, but it is not as specific as a sunken anterior fontanel for severe dehydration.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using a bulb syringe to suction the nares is a common practice for clearing nasal passages in infants, but it is not the primary concern for an infant with a tracheostomy, which requires specific care to maintain airway patency.
Choice B reason: Providing antibiotic therapy may be necessary if there is an infection, but it is not a standard care action for a tracheostomy without evidence of infection.
Choice C reason: Administering intermittent suction via the tracheostomy is essential to clear secretions and maintain airway patency, which is the greatest risk for an infant with a tracheostomy.
Choice D reason: Placing an infant in a prone position to sleep is not recommended due to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Infants should be placed on their backs to sleep.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, is a common symptom of RSV and, while it should be monitored, it is not typically an urgent concern that requires immediate reporting to a provider.
Choice B reason: Pharyngitis, or a sore throat, is another symptom that can be associated with RSV. Like rhinorrhea, it should be monitored but does not usually necessitate immediate reporting.
Choice C reason: Coughing is a typical symptom of RSV and is expected. It should be monitored for changes in character or severity but is not generally an urgent concern for immediate reporting.
Choice D reason: Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is a sign of respiratory distress and is a critical finding in an infant with RSV. It indicates that the infant's ability to breathe effectively is compromised and requires immediate attention from a healthcare provider.
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