A nurse is caring for a toddler who has a fractured right femur and is in Bryant traction. When determining that the traction is appropriately assembled, the nurse should observe which of the following?

Choice A reason: Weight loss is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Weight gain due to fluid retention is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's weight and fluid intake and output regularly.

Choice B reason: Bradycardia is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Tachycardia due to increased cardiac workload is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's heart rate and rhythm frequently.

Choice C reason: Increased urine output is not a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Decreased urine output due to poor renal perfusion is more likely to occur. The nurse should monitor the toddler's urine specific gravity and electrolytes periodically.

Choice D reason: Orthopnea is a typical finding in a toddler who has heart failure. Orthopnea is the difficulty of breathing when lying flat. The nurse should elevate the toddler's head and chest to facilitate breathing and oxygenation.

Choice A reason: Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, caused by a bacterial infection. It can cause fever, headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, and altered mental status. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis may show increased white blood cells, protein, and glucose. The nurse should assess the neck range of motion and the reaction to pupil assessment, as these may indicate increased intracranial pressure.

Choice B reason: Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain tissue, usually caused by a viral infection. It can cause fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. The CSF analysis may show increased white blood cells and protein, but normal glucose. The nurse should assess the level of consciousness and the neurological status, as these may indicate brain damage.

Choice C reason: Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. The nurse should assess the gastrointestinal manifestations and the vital signs, as these may indicate fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice D reason: Migraine is a type of headache that involves recurrent episodes of moderate to severe pain, usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The nurse should assess the location and duration of pain, the triggers and relievers, and the history of migraine. The CSF analysis is usually normal.