A 2-year-old child presented with severe clinical manifestations of vitamin A deficiency including xerophthalmia. Of the following, the suggested therapeutic vitamin A doses are

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: oral 500,000 U/day for 3 days; then 50,000 U/day for 14 days; then 10,000-20,000 U/day for 2 months. This dosing regimen is based on the treatment protocol for severe vitamin A deficiency in children. The initial high dose aims to rapidly replenish vitamin A stores in the body, followed by a tapering regimen to maintain adequate levels over time. Option A (oral 5,000-10,000 U/kg/day for 5 days or until recovery) provides a broad dosing range without a specific tapering schedule, which may not adequately address severe deficiency. Option B (200,000 U/day orally, q4-6mo) is a maintenance dose, not suitable for acute deficiency treatment. Option C (100,000 U/day for 3 days, then 50,000 U/day for 14 days) lacks the higher initial dose needed for severe cases. Educationally, understanding the correct dosing regimen for severe vitamin A deficiency in pediatric patients is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively manage and treat this condition. By knowing the appropriate doses and tapering schedules, practitioners can optimize patient outcomes and prevent long-term complications associated with vitamin A deficiency, such as xerophthalmia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is an estimate of the daily average nutrient intake to meet the nutritional needs of >97% of the individuals. This option is incorrect because the RDA is actually set to meet the needs of 97-98% of healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group, not greater than 97%. Option A is true as nutrition and growth during 3-6 years of life do predict adult stature and some health outcomes. This is because adequate nutrition during childhood is crucial for proper growth and development. Option B is also true as the major risk period for growth stunting is indeed between 4 and 24 months of age. This period is critical for providing proper nutrition to support optimal growth and development in children. Option C is true as the estimated average requirement (EAR) is the average daily nutrient intake level estimated to meet the requirements for 50% of the population. This is a valuable metric used in determining nutrient intake recommendations. Understanding these concepts is essential for healthcare professionals working with pediatric populations to ensure they provide appropriate nutritional guidance and support to promote healthy growth and development in children. By grasping these nuances in nutritional requirements, practitioners can better tailor their advice to meet the specific needs of each child.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Essential fatty acid deficiency is associated with dermatologic manifestations such as rashes, desquamating skin, and alopecia due to the role of essential fatty acids in maintaining skin integrity and function. However, thrombocytosis is not a typical feature of essential fatty acid deficiency. Thrombocytosis is an abnormal increase in the number of platelets in the blood and is not directly related to essential fatty acid deficiency. In an educational context, understanding the clinical manifestations of essential fatty acid deficiency is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in pediatric patients who may be at risk due to inadequate dietary intake or malabsorption issues. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency can aid in early diagnosis and intervention to prevent further complications. This question also highlights the importance of comprehensive knowledge of pediatric GI disorders and the diverse clinical presentations associated with nutritional deficiencies.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the absolute contraindication to breastfeeding is active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), which is option D. The rationale behind this is that active TB is a contagious bacterial infection that can be transmitted through respiratory droplets. Breastfeeding in the presence of active pulmonary TB can expose the infant to the bacteria, risking infection and complications. Option A, hepatitis C infection of the mother, is not an absolute contraindication to breastfeeding. While caution may be advised in certain situations, breastfeeding can still be considered with appropriate measures to reduce the risk of transmission. Option B, alcohol, is a relative contraindication to breastfeeding. Occasional, moderate alcohol consumption by the mother does not necessitate stopping breastfeeding altogether. However, excessive alcohol intake can be harmful to the infant. Option C, herpes simplex lesion of the lips, is also not an absolute contraindication to breastfeeding. As long as the lesion is localized and covered to prevent direct contact with the infant, breastfeeding can usually continue safely. Educationally, understanding the contraindications to breastfeeding is crucial for healthcare providers working with infants and mothers. By knowing which conditions pose a risk to the infant through breastfeeding, appropriate guidance can be provided to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. It is essential to be aware of the nuances of each condition and how they impact breastfeeding decisions to provide optimal care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Food security is a critical concept in pediatrics, particularly in addressing GI disorders which can be exacerbated by inadequate nutrition. In this question, the correct answer is C) preparation. Food security comprises four dimensions: access (the ability to obtain food), availability (the physical existence of food), utilization (the ability to utilize food, including proper nutrition practices), and stability (consistent access to adequate food). Preparation, while important for ensuring proper nutrition and hygiene, is not considered a standalone dimension of food security. In an educational context, understanding the dimensions of food security is crucial for healthcare providers caring for pediatric patients with GI disorders. By recognizing the different aspects of food security, providers can address barriers to adequate nutrition comprehensively, leading to better management of GI conditions and overall improved health outcomes for children.