A nurse is providing teaching to a school-age child who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following statements by the child indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A) Seizure Precautions:

While seizure precautions are important in certain clinical situations, they are not directly related to the excess fluid and generalized edema associated with nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic syndrome is primarily characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and fluid retention, which can lead to edema. Seizure precautions would not directly address the fluid imbalance in this context.

B) Ambulation:

Ambulation involves walking or movement and is not a priority intervention for addressing excess fluid and generalized edema. The primary concern in nephrotic syndrome with fluid accumulation is to manage the fluid balance and prevent further complications related to edema, such as respiratory distress or compromised circulation.

C) Daily weight:

This is the correct priority intervention. Daily weight monitoring is crucial in managing fluid balance and assessing the effectiveness of treatment in a child with nephrotic syndrome and fluid accumulation. Sudden weight gain can indicate worsening edema, while weight loss might indicate a response to treatment. Daily weight monitoring provides essential information to adjust fluid and medication management accordingly.

D) Keep bed position flat:

While maintaining a flat bed position may help improve venous return and fluid distribution, it is not the priority intervention for managing excess fluid and generalized edema in a child with nephrotic syndrome. Monitoring daily weight and adjusting treatment based on weight changes are more directly related to addressing the fluid imbalance.

A) A step-wise approach will be used to reduce the dosage gradually.

Explanation:

After a certain period of seizure control, a healthcare provider may consider gradually tapering and discontinuing anti-seizure medications in consultation with the child's neurologist. This is often done in a step-wise manner to monitor the child's condition and minimize the risk of seizure recurrence. Stopping anti-seizure medications abruptly can increase the risk of seizures returning. Therefore, the response provided in option A is the most accurate and relevant to the situation.

The other options are incorrect:

B) Your child will always suffer seizures:

This statement is not accurate, as some children with epilepsy can achieve long-term seizure control with appropriate treatment. Epilepsy management varies from person to person, and many individuals can experience extended periods of seizure freedom.

C) This is always a hereditary disorder:

Epilepsy can have both genetic and non-genetic causes. While there are genetic forms of epilepsy, not all cases are hereditary. Epilepsy can be caused by a variety of factors, including brain injuries, infections, and other medical conditions.

D) Only her male offspring will experience seizures:

Epilepsy does not discriminate based on gender. Both males and females can be affected by epilepsy. This statement is not accurate and does not reflect the reality of epilepsy as a medical condition.