Which therapeutic management should the nurse prepare to initiate first for a child with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration?
Oral rehydration solution (ORS)
Antidiarrheal medications such as paregoric
Clear liquids
Adsorbents, such as kaolin and pectin
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is the first-line treatment for children with acute diarrhea and moderate dehydration. ORS contains a precise balance of electrolytes and glucose, which helps to rehydrate the child effectively by promoting the absorption of water and electrolytes in the intestines. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend ORS as the preferred treatment for dehydration caused by diarrhea. It is effective, easy to administer, and can be given at home or in a healthcare setting.
Choice B reason:
Antidiarrheal medications such as paregoric are not recommended for children with acute diarrhea. These medications can slow down the movement of the intestines, which may prolong the infection and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, they do not address the underlying cause of dehydration. The primary goal in managing acute diarrhea is to rehydrate the child, which is best achieved with ORS.
Choice C reason:
Clear liquids, such as water, broth, or diluted fruit juices, can be used to provide some hydration, but they do not contain the necessary electrolytes to effectively treat moderate dehydration. Clear liquids alone are not sufficient to replace the lost electrolytes and fluids caused by diarrhea. ORS is specifically formulated to address these needs and is more effective in rehydrating the child.
Choice D reason:
Adsorbents, such as kaolin and pectin, are not recommended for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children. These substances can bind to the contents of the intestines and may reduce the frequency of stools, but they do not address the underlying dehydration. The primary focus should be on rehydration with ORS, which provides the necessary electrolytes and fluids to restore the child’s hydration status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Bilious vomiting and constipation are not typical manifestations of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Bilious vomiting, which is green or yellow, indicates that the vomit contains bile and is usually associated with intestinal obstruction beyond the stomach. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis typically causes non-bilious, projectile vomiting because the obstruction is at the pylorus, before the bile duct.
Choice B reason:
Abdominal distention and currant jelly-like stools are not indicative of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Currant jelly-like stools are a classic sign of intussusception, a different condition where part of the intestine telescopes into itself. While abdominal distention can occur in pyloric stenosis, the presence of currant jelly-like stools points to a different diagnosis.
Choice C reason:
A rounded abdomen and hypoactive bowel sounds can be seen in various gastrointestinal conditions but are not specific to hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. While a rounded abdomen may be present due to gastric distention, hypoactive bowel sounds are not a hallmark of this condition. The primary symptom of pyloric stenosis is projectile vomiting.
Choice D reason:
Ravenously hungry after vomiting is a classic manifestation of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Infants with this condition often vomit forcefully after feeding and then appear hungry again because the food does not pass through the pylorus into the intestines. This symptom, along with projectile vomiting, is a key indicator of pyloric stenosis.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
The correct answers are a) Use a straw to administer the medication, b) Give the medication with vitamin C, and c) It is best to give the medication with food.
Choice A reason:
Using a straw to administer ferrous sulfate is recommended to prevent staining of the teeth. Ferrous sulfate, especially in liquid form, can cause discoloration of the teeth if it comes into direct contact with them. By using a straw, the medication bypasses the teeth, reducing the risk of staining.
Choice B reason:
Giving ferrous sulfate with vitamin C is beneficial because vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) helps convert iron into a form that is more easily absorbed by the body. Therefore, administering ferrous sulfate with a source of vitamin C, such as orange juice, can improve its effectiveness.
Choice C reason:
It is best to give ferrous sulfate with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. While iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, it can cause stomach upset, nausea, and constipation. Taking the medication with food can help mitigate these side effects, making it more tolerable for the child.
Choice D reason:
Giving ferrous sulfate with milk is not recommended. Dairy products, including milk, can interfere with the absorption of iron. Calcium in milk binds with iron, reducing its bioavailability and effectiveness. Therefore, it is best to avoid giving ferrous sulfate with milk or other dairy products.
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