A nurse is reinforcing teaching about controlling allergens with the parent of a child who has a new diagnosis of asthma. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:
Hct 45% (Choice A) refers to the hematocrit level, which measures the proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. While dehydration can lead to elevated hematocrit due to hemoconcentration, a hematocrit value of 45% is within the normal range for both males and females. Dehydration might cause a mild increase, but more significant elevations would be expected in cases of severe dehydration.
Choice B rationale:
Urine specific gravity 1.035 (Choice B) is an indicator of concentrated urine, which is a characteristic finding in dehydration. Dehydration reduces the body's water content, leading to more concentrated urine with higher specific gravity values. A normal range for urine-specific gravity is typically between 1.005 and 1.030.
Choice C rationale:
Capillary refill of less than 2 seconds (Choice C) is not a finding consistent with dehydration. Capillary refill time measures the time it takes for color to return to the nailbed after pressure is applied. Prolonged capillary refill time might indicate poor peripheral perfusion, which can be a sign of dehydration, but a refill time of less than 2 seconds is considered within the normal range.
Choice D rationale:
A urine output of 35 ml/hr (Choice D) is not indicative of dehydration. In fact, a urine output of 35 ml/hr is relatively normal and suggests adequate fluid intake and hydration. Dehydration would typically result in reduced urine output as the body conserves water.

Choice A rationale:
Allowing an adolescent driver to answer their phone while driving can lead to distraction, increasing the risk of accidents. Engaging in conversations on the phone diverts the driver's attention from the road, which is unsafe. It's crucial for drivers, especially new ones, to focus solely on driving to prevent accidents.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is correct. Not answering the phone while driving is a responsible behavior that indicates an understanding of the dangers of distracted driving. Parents should encourage their children to focus on the road and avoid distractions like phone calls, promoting safe driving practices.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Adolescents should continue wearing helmets when riding their bikes even after age 13. Wearing helmets helps prevent head injuries in case of accidents. While older adolescents might perceive themselves as less prone to accidents, they are still at risk, and helmets are essential for their safety.
Choice D rationale:
This choice is correct. Wearing appropriate protective clothing, like long pants, while driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is crucial. Long pants can provide some degree of protection against scrapes, scratches, and minor injuries that can occur while operating an ATV. It's a safety measure that shows an understanding of the importance of protective gear.