A nurse is caring for a child with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
The nurse knows that maintaining a patent airway is crucial in the management of this condition.
The child’s mother asks the nurse, “What can I do to help my child breathe better?” Which of the following responses by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

This is The correct answer because it addresses the client's concern about dehydration.

Infants and young children with RSV infection are at risk of dehydration due to increased respiratory effort, fever, and decreased oral intake.

Encouraging oral fluids or providing intravenous fluids as prescribed helps prevent dehydration, ensuring the child remains hydrated during the illness.

Choice B rationale:

While adequate fluid intake is essential, stating a specific quantity like 8 glasses of water a day is not appropriate for infants and young children.

The fluid requirements vary based on the child's age, weight, and overall health condition.

Providing a specific quantity without proper assessment can be misleading and may not meet the child's individual needs.

Choice C rationale:

Limiting the child's fluid intake to prevent overhydration is not the primary concern in this context.

Dehydration due to increased respiratory effort and decreased oral intake is a more significant concern.

Adequate hydration is crucial in preventing complications associated with dehydration.

Choice D rationale:

Restricting the child to clear liquids only is not appropriate, especially in the context of RSV infection.

While clear liquids are essential, they may not provide adequate nutrition.

Maintaining appropriate oral intake, which includes a variety of fluids and, if possible, nutritionally balanced foods, is important for the child's overall well-being during the illness.

Choice A rationale:

RSV infects the squamous epithelial cells of your bronchioles, alveoli, and nasal passages.

This statement is accurate.

RSV primarily targets the respiratory tract, infecting the cells lining the bronchioles, alveoli, and nasal passages.

This infection can lead to symptoms ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Choice B rationale:

RSV does not cause the immune system to attack the body's own cells.

It primarily targets the respiratory system, leading to respiratory symptoms.

Autoimmune responses are not associated with RSV infections.

Choice C rationale:

RSV does not lead to an overproduction of red blood cells.

This statement is incorrect and not related to the pathophysiology of RSV infections.

Choice D rationale:

RSV does not cause the body to stop producing white blood cells.

White blood cells play a crucial role in the immune response, and stopping their production would severely compromise the body's ability to fight infections.

RSV primarily affects the respiratory system and does not directly impact white blood cell production.