A nurse is caring for a toddler who has intussusception.

Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:
Abdominal rigidity and pain on palpation are not typical signs of pyloric stenosis. Pyloric stenosis usually presents with non-bilious projectile vomiting, a palpable olive-shaped mass in the upper abdomen, and signs of dehydration.
Choice B rationale:
A rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds are characteristic signs of pyloric stenosis. The hypertrophied pyloric muscle obstructs the passage of food from the stomach to the duodenum, leading to gastric distention, visible peristalsis, and vomiting. The infant may appear hungry after vomiting and will continue to feed, leading to weight loss.
Choice C rationale:
Visible peristalsis and weight loss are consistent with pyloric stenosis. The visible peristalsis occurs as the infant tries to force the stomach contents through the narrowed pyloric sphincter. Weight loss is a result of poor feeding and vomiting.
Choice D rationale:
Distention of the lower abdomen and constipation are not typical findings in pyloric stenosis. Constipation suggests a lower gastrointestinal issue, while pyloric stenosis primarily affects the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Choice A rationale
Activated charcoal is often used in the management of poisoning. It works by binding to the poison in the stomach and preventing it from being absorbed into the body14.
Choice B rationale
Osmotic diarrheal agents are not typically used in gastric lavage. These agents work by increasing the amount of water in the intestinal tract, which can stimulate bowel movements14.
Choice C rationale
Syrup of ipecac was once used to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning, but it is no longer recommended for use in poisoning cases14.
Choice D rationale
0.9% sodium chloride, or normal saline, is a type of fluid that’s often used in medical treatments, but it’s not typically used in gastric lavage for poisoning14.