The nurse receives a call from the mother of a 6-month-old who describes her child as alternately sleepy and fussy. She states that her infant vomited once this morning and had two episodes of diarrhea. The last episode contained mucous and a small amount of blood, stating "her stool kind of looks like currant jelly". She asks the nurse what she should do. Select the nurse's best response.

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice. Aspirin is a part of the treatment for children with Kawasaki disease, which is a rare but serious condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels. Aspirin is given to reduce fever, inflammation, and the risk of developing coronary artery aneurysms. Aspirin is usually given in high doses during the acute phase of the disease and then in low doses as a preventive measure until the inflammation subsides.

Choice B reason: This is not a good choice. Aspirin is not contraindicated for children with Kawasaki disease, unlike other conditions such as Reye syndrome or viral infections. Aspirin is a beneficial and essential part of the treatment for children with Kawasaki disease, as it can prevent serious and potentially fatal complications.

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as letting the child feed herself finger foods is not a risk factor for aspiration, but a way to promote self-feeding skills, independence, and appetite. The nurse should encourage the parents to offer the child a variety of soft, bite-sized, and nutritious foods, such as cooked vegetables, fruits, cheese, or bread, and to supervise the child during meals.

Choice B reason: This statement is correct, as giving whole milk is recommended for children between 1 and 2 years old, as it provides adequate fat, protein, calcium, and vitamin D for their growth and development. The nurse should advise the parents to give the child about 16 to 24 ounces of whole milk per day, and to avoid low-fat or skim milk until the child is 2 years old.

Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect, as delaying the introduction of foods which may cause allergies is not necessary or beneficial for the prevention of food allergies in children. The nurse should inform the parents that there is no evidence that avoiding certain foods, such as eggs, peanuts, or fish, can reduce the risk of food allergies, and that introducing these foods early, around 6 months of age, may actually prevent or reduce the severity of food allergies.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as transitioning to 1% milk is not advisable for children under 2 years old, as it does not provide enough fat and calories for their growth and development. The nurse should explain to the parents that low-fat or skim milk is not suitable for young children, as they need more fat for their brain and nervous system development, and that switching to 1% milk should only be done after consulting with the doctor.