Which statement best describes fear in school-age children?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct answer, as the dose of cefotaxime is not safe for the child. The dose of cefotaxime is 700 mg IV q6 hrs, which means 2800 mg per day. The safe dose range for cefotaxime is 50-200 mg/kg/day, which means 1000-4000 mg per day for a 20 kg child. The dose of cefotaxime is above the safe dose range and may cause toxicity or adverse effects.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer, as the dose of cefotaxime is not safe for the child. The dose of cefotaxime is 700 mg IV q6 hrs, which means 2800 mg per day. The safe dose range for cefotaxime is 50-200 mg/kg/day, which means 1000-4000 mg per day for a 20 kg child. The dose of cefotaxime is above the safe dose range and may cause toxicity or adverse effects.

Choice A reason: Clear liquids are not the best intervention for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Clear liquids are fluids that are transparent or translucent, such as water, broth, tea, or juice. They may provide some hydration, but they do not contain enough electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) to replace the losses from diarrhea. They may also worsen diarrhea by increasing the osmotic load in the gut.

Choice B reason: Absorbents such as kaolin and pectin are not recommended for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Absorbents are substances that bind to toxins, bacteria, or water in the gut, and are supposed to reduce the frequency and volume of stools. However, there is no evidence that they are effective or safe for children with diarrhea. They may also interfere with the absorption of other medications or nutrients.

Choice C reason: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the preferred intervention for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. ORS is a specially formulated solution that contains water, glucose, and electrolytes in the right proportions to replenish the losses from diarrhea. ORS can prevent or treat dehydration, and can also reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea. ORS is widely available, inexpensive, and easy to use. It should be given to children with diarrhea as soon as possible, and continued until the diarrhea stops.

Choice D reason: Antidiarrheal medications are not advised for acute diarrhea and dehydration in children. Antidiarrheal medications are drugs that slow down the movement of the gut, reduce the secretion of fluids, or kill the bacteria that cause diarrhea. However, they are not effective for viral diarrhea, which is the most common cause of diarrhea in children. They may also have serious side effects, such as constipation, abdominal pain, drowsiness, or allergic reactions. They may also mask the symptoms of more serious conditions, such as appendicitis or bowel obstruction.