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 B rationale:

Offering frequent small feedings of breast milk or formula to maintain nutrition is an appropriate response.

Infants with RSV may experience decreased appetite and difficulty feeding due to respiratory distress.

Providing small, frequent feedings ensures that the infant receives adequate nutrition and hydration despite reduced intake during each feeding session.

Choice A rationale:

Giving the baby aspirin if they develop a fever is not recommended.

Aspirin use in children with viral infections like RSV has been associated with Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if appropriate for the child's age, can be used to manage fever and discomfort.

Choice C rationale:

Keeping the baby in a flat position to promote comfort is not advisable.

Elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly can help improve breathing and reduce nasal congestion in infants with respiratory infections, promoting better comfort and easier breathing.

Choice D rationale:

Stopping all feedings if the baby seems to be having trouble breathing is not The correct approach.

Adequate nutrition is crucial for the infant's overall health and recovery.

Instead, the caregiver should seek medical advice if the baby experiences significant difficulty breathing or feeding.

Adjustments in feeding techniques or temporary alternative feeding methods may be recommended under medical supervision.