The nurse observes a mother administering ferrous sulfate (iron drops) to her 11-month-old child, followed by 2 ounces (60 mL) of orange juice.

What should be the nurse’s subsequent action?

Choice A rationale
While physical therapy can be beneficial for many pediatric patients, it may not be the most appropriate intervention for a newborn who has had gastroschisis repair and is on parenteral nutrition and continuous enteral feedings. The focus at this stage should be on promoting normal growth and development, and physical therapy may not directly contribute to this goal.
Choice B rationale
Offering a pacifier for non-nutritive sucking can be an effective strategy to promote normal growth and development in infants who have had gastroschisis repair. Non-nutritive sucking can help stimulate the sucking reflex, which is important for feeding and growth. Therefore, the nurse should include this action in the plan of care.
Choice C rationale
Confirming the placement of the enteral tube with an abdominal x-ray is an important part of care for infants on continuous enteral feedings. However, this action is more related to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the feeding process rather than promoting the infant’s normal growth and development.
Choice D rationale
Using sterile technique during feedings is a standard practice to prevent infection, especially in infants who are on parenteral nutrition and continuous enteral feedings. However, this action does not directly promote the infant’s normal growth and development.

Choice A rationale
Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used in the treatment of heart failure. It works by widening blood vessels, which reduces the workload of the heart and helps keep heart failure from getting worse. In the given scenario, there is no specific indication to hold Enalapril based on the infant’s vital signs.
Choice B rationale
Digoxin is a medication that can help the heart beat stronger with a more regular rhythm. However, it is important to monitor the patient’s heart rate when administering Digoxin, as it can lower the heart rate. In this case, the infant’s apical pulse is 88 beats/minute, which is lower than the normal range for an eight-month-old infant (normal range: 100-160 beats/minute). Therefore, the nurse should hold the Digoxin and inform the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale
Furosemide is a diuretic that helps the kidneys get rid of extra fluid that may build up in the body. It is often used in the treatment of heart failure to relieve symptoms such as fluid retention. In the given scenario, there is no specific indication to hold Furosemide based on the infant’s vital signs.
Choice D rationale
Hydralazine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. In the given scenario, there is no specific indication to hold Hydralazine based on the infant’s vital signs.