A nurse is caring for a child who has been admitted with severe dehydration.
The nurse understands that the child’s degree of dehydration is typically classified based on the loss of body weight.
The nurse observes dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor in the child.
Based on these observations, the nurse should classify the child’s dehydration as:.
“Mild dehydration, which is 3-5% loss of body weight.”.
“Moderate dehydration, which is 6-9% loss of body weight.”.
“Severe dehydration, which is ≥10% loss of body weight.”.
“No dehydration, which is less than 3% loss of body weight.”..
The Correct Answer is C
“Severe dehydration, which is ≥10% loss of body weight.”.
Choice A rationale:
Mild dehydration is typically classified as a 3-5% loss of body weight.
The signs and symptoms described in the scenario, such as dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor, are indicative of more severe dehydration than a 3-5% loss.
Choice B rationale:
Moderate dehydration is generally considered to be a 6-9% loss of body weight.
However, the signs and symptoms presented in the scenario suggest a more severe state of dehydration.
Choice C rationale:
Severe dehydration is classified as a loss of ≥10% of body weight.
The signs and symptoms observed by the nurse, including dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor, are consistent with severe dehydration, making choice C The correct classification.
Choice D rationale:
No dehydration is defined as less than a 3% loss of body weight.
The clinical manifestations observed in the child, as described in the scenario, clearly indicate dehydration.
In this case, the child's signs and symptoms align with the classification of severe dehydration, which is characterized by a loss of ≥10% of body weight.
These symptoms include dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor.
It's crucial to recognize the severity of dehydration accurately to initiate the appropriate treatment and prevent complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Lactated Ringer's solution is not contraindicated in cases of hyperkalemia.
This solution contains potassium in a relatively low concentration of 4 mEq/L, which is unlikely to significantly impact hyperkalemia.
Choice B rationale:
Lactated Ringer's solution can be contraindicated in cases of hypokalemia.
While it does contain potassium, the concentration is relatively low at 4 mEq/L.
In cases of severe hypokalemia, a more potassium-rich solution might be preferred.
Choice C rationale:
Lactated Ringer's solution can be used in cases of lower GI fluid loss.
It can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes effectively.
Choice D rationale:
Lactated Ringer's solution can be used in cases of upper GI fluid loss.
It helps restore lost fluids and electrolytes.
Choice E rationale:
Lactated Ringer's solution is not contraindicated in cases of lactic acidosis.
In fact, it contains lactate (28 mEq/L), which can be metabolized to bicarbonate and help correct acidosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice B: Total maintenance fluids = 1200 mL/day.
Choice A rationale:
This value exceeds the calculated requirement for a child weighing 18 kg using the Holliday-Segar method.
Choice B rationale:
The Holliday-Segar method calculates maintenance fluids based on weight as follows:
- For the first 10 kg, the requirement is 100 mL/kg.
- For the next 10 kg, the requirement is 50 mL/kg.
Thus, for a child weighing 18 kg:
- First 10 kg: 10 kg x 100 mL/kg = 1000 mL
- Next 8 kg: 8 kg x 50 mL/kg = 400 mL Total maintenance fluid requirement = 1000 mL + 400 mL = 1400 mL/day.
So, actually, the correct answer should be Choice D: 1400 mL/day.
Choice C rationale:
This value is higher than the requirement for 18 kg based on the Holliday-Segar method.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct calculation based on the method described above: 1000 mL for the first 10 kg plus 400 mL for the next 8 kg totals 1400 mL/day.
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