A nurse is caring for a toddler whose parent states that the child has a mass in his abdominal area and his urine is a pink color. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?

Choice A rationale
It is not advisable for a parent to attempt to reinsert the tubes if they fall out. This could potentially cause harm to the child’s ear.
Choice B rationale
If the tubes fall out, the parent should call the healthcare clinic to report this. The healthcare provider can then decide on the appropriate next steps.
Choice C rationale
It is not accurate to reassure the mother that the tubes will not fall out. Tympanostomy tubes are designed to fall out on their own after a certain period of time.
Choice D rationale
Taking the child to an emergency department is not necessary unless there are signs of infection or other complications.

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.