A nurse is caring for a child who is 2 hr postoperative following a tonsillectomy. Which of the following fluid items should the nurse offer the child at this time?

A. Symptoms are continuous throughout the day:
Incorrect: Continuous symptoms throughout the day are more indicative of moderate or severe persistent asthma, not mild persistent asthma.
B. Daytime symptoms occur more than twice a week:
Correct Answer: Children with mild persistent asthma may experience symptoms more than twice a week, but less than once a day.
C. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) is greater than or equal to 80% of the predicted value:In mild persistent asthma, pulmonary function tests (e.g., PEF or FEV1) remain normal or close to normal, with values typically ≥80% of the predicted value, reflecting good lung function between episodes.
D. Nighttime symptoms occur approximately twice a month:
Mild persistent asthma often involves nighttime symptoms or awakenings occurring 3–4 times per month. If nighttime symptoms occur more frequently (e.g., once weekly), it suggests moderate persistent asthma.
E. Minor limitations occur with normal activity:Children with mild persistent asthma may experience minor limitations in their normal activities. These limitations are not severe and do not significantly impact daily life.

A. "Has your child been exposed to anyone with chicken pox?"
While chickenpox is caused by a different virus (varicella-zoster virus) and is not directly linked to rheumatic fever, the nurse might inquire about exposure to contagious illnesses as a general part of the assessment.
B. "Has any family member had a sore throat within the past few weeks?"
This question is relevant because rheumatic fever often follows an untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal infection, such as strep throat. A sore throat in a family member could indicate the presence of streptococcal infection, which is a crucial factor in the development of rheumatic fever.
C. "Has any family member had a gastrointestinal disorder in the past few weeks?"
Gastrointestinal disorders are not directly associated with the development of rheumatic fever. However, a comprehensive medical history might include questions about recent illnesses to understand the overall health context.
D. "Has your child had difficulty urinating?"
Difficulty urinating is not a typical symptom or risk factor associated with rheumatic fever. This symptom would likely prompt investigation into other potential issues but is not specifically related to rheumatic fever.