The nurse is giving instructions to the mother of a 10-year-old boy who is newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). When attempting to teach the mother how to administer subcutaneous insulin injections to the child, the mother tells the nurse that she is afraid of needles and cannot perform the procedure.
Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale

Diet cola, although refreshing, contains caffeine which can contribute to dehydration. For adolescents with sickle cell anemia, hydration is crucial to prevent sickle cell crises. Moreover, sodas generally offer no nutritional benefits.

Choice B rationale

Lemonade is a better choice as it is hydrating and provides fluids without caffeine. Proper hydration is vital for sickle cell patients to maintain blood volume and prevent the sickling of red blood cells. Additionally, lemonade can supply essential electrolytes.

Choice C rationale

Ice tea, similar to diet cola, contains caffeine which can exacerbate dehydration. Hydration is key for individuals with sickle cell anemia to avoid complications and maintain adequate blood flow.

Choice D rationale

Milkshake, while providing hydration, is high in fat and sugar, which can be counterproductive. It also lacks the electrolytes present in lemonade which are beneficial for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

Choice A rationale

Comparing the temperature of both legs can help identify potential circulatory issues or infections. However, temperature differences are not the most immediate concern when assessing a child with a long-leg cast. Monitoring neurovascular status, including circulation and nerve function, is more critical to ensure there are no complications such as compartment syndrome or impaired blood flow.

Choice B rationale

Monitoring capillary refill of the toes is crucial for assessing the circulatory status of the affected limb. Capillary refill time indicates how well blood is perfusing to the extremities. A delayed capillary refill time can suggest compromised circulation, which could lead to serious complications like tissue ischemia. This assessment helps ensure that the cast is not too tight and that there is adequate blood flow to the toes.

Choice C rationale

Examining for spontaneous movement is important for assessing motor function and ensuring that there is no nerve damage. However, it is not as immediate a concern as circulatory assessment. Spontaneous movement can indicate intact motor function, but circulatory compromise would need to be addressed urgently to prevent tissue damage.

Choice D rationale

Palpating femoral pulses is important for assessing the overall circulation to the lower extremities. However, in the context of a long-leg cast, it is more relevant to directly assess the area distal to the cast (such as the toes) for adequate perfusion. Checking femoral pulses alone does not provide specific information about potential compartment syndrome or tightness of the cast affecting distal circulation.