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Nursing Assessment Gastroenteritis in Children

  • Assess the child's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.
  • Monitor the child's hydration status by assessing skin turgor, mucous membranes, and urine output.
  • Document the frequency, consistency, and characteristics of the child's stools.
  • Assess the child's abdominal pain level using a pain scale appropriate for their age.
  • Evaluate the child's overall appearance, behavior, and level of distress.
  • Perform a thorough physical examination, paying attention to the gastrointestinal system.

Questions on Nursing Assessment Gastroenteritis in Children

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The statement, "My child has been vomiting a lot," is a symptom of gastroenteritis. However, the question specifically asks about changes in bowel movements. While vomiting is a common symptom of gastroenteritis, the focus here is on bowel movements, making choice A The correct answer.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The statement, "My child has had diarrhea for a few days," is a potential statement the nurse might hear during the assessment of a child with gastroenteritis. Diarrhea is a common symptom of viral gastroenteritis and can lead to dehydration if not properly managed. The nurse should assess the duration, frequency, and characteristics of the diarrhea to determine the severity of the condition and plan appropriate interventions.

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]

Explanation

Recommending vaccination against common viral causes of gastroenteritis is a preventive measure. Vaccines are available for certain viruses, such as rotavirus, which is a common cause of gastroenteritis in children. Immunization helps protect children from severe cases of gastroenteritis and reduces the overall prevalence of the disease in the community.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

This statement is inaccurate. Gastroenteritis does impact fluid balance in the intestines. It disrupts the normal functioning of the intestines, leading to fluid imbalances.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Gastroenteritis is generally not caused by food allergies in children. While food allergies can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, the typical presentation of gastroenteritis involves infectious agents rather than allergic reactions.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Viral testing using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is valuable for detecting viruses, but it is not the first-line diagnostic test for bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis. Stool culture and sensitivity testing are more appropriate in this context.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Skin turgor, mucous membranes, and urine output are crucial indicators of hydration status. Skin turgor refers to the skin's elasticity and how quickly it returns to normal after being pinched. Poor skin turgor can indicate dehydration. Mucous membranes, such as the inside of the mouth, should be moist. Dry mucous membranes can suggest dehydration. Additionally, monitoring urine output is essential. A decreased urine output or dark-colored urine can indicate dehydration. These parameters provide a comprehensive assessment of the child's hydration status and guide appropriate interventions.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]

Explanation

Evaluating the child's overall appearance and behavior is crucial. Lethargy, irritability, or other changes in behavior can indicate dehydration or worsening illness. Additionally, observing the child's general appearance can provide valuable information about their overall health status.

"The diarrhea in gastroenteritis is usually watery.”. This statement is correct. Watery diarrhea is a hallmark symptom of gastroenteritis. It results from inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to increased water content in the stools. This type of diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydra

The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a continuous scale used for pain assessment. It's more suitable for adults and older children, as younger children might find it challenging to understand and use effectively.

ORT can often prevent the need for hospitalization by effectively managing dehydration on an outpatient basis. However, its primary purpose is to prevent dehydration, not to eliminate the need for hospitalization in all cases.

Drinking as much water as possible might not be appropriate, especially if the client is vomiting severely. Introducing clear liquids first allows for a gradual reintroduction of fluids and assesses the client's tolerance before advancing to more complex diets.

Disinfecting surfaces and toys that the child has come into contact with is crucial in preventing the spread of gastroenteritis. The virus or bacteria causing the illness can survive on surfaces for a certain period, making it essential to regularly disinfect commonly touched items. This measure red

Administering antibiotics is appropriate for a child with bacterial gastroenteritis. Bacterial gastroenteritis is caused by bacteria such as Salmonella or Escherichia coli, and antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate the bacteria from the body. However, it is essential to note that not all cases of

"Probiotics relieve the symptoms of gastroenteritis.”. While probiotics can support overall gut health, saying they directly relieve symptoms might be an oversimplification. Probiotics may help in reducing symptoms indirectly by restoring gut balance, but they might not provide immediate relief fr
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