A child with type 1 diabetes mellitus is brought to the emergency department by the mother, who states that the child has been complaining of abdominal pain and has been lethargic. Diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed. Anticipating the plan of care, the nurse prepares to administer which type of intravenous (IV) infusion?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis. The initial treatment for DKA requires correcting dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Normal saline infusion is the preferred choice for initial fluid resuscitation in patients with DKA to address dehydration and restore intravascular volume. It helps improve organ perfusion and correct electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia and dehydration commonly seen in DKA patients. Administering normal saline helps replace lost fluids and improve circulation, which is crucial in the management of DKA. Potassium infusion may be needed later to replete potassium levels once the patient's kidney function has been assessed. NPH insulin infusion is not the initial treatment for DKA, although insulin therapy is an essential component of DKA management. 5% dextrose infusion is contraindicated in the initial treatment

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most dangerous complication of untreated hypothyroidism is mental retardation, especially in infants and children. Thyroid hormones play a vital role in the brain development of infants and young children. Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism during this critical period can lead to irreversible cognitive impairment, affecting intelligence and neurodevelopment. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism are essential to prevent this serious complication, particularly in children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A newborn with normal respiratory breathing would typically exhibit regular breathing patterns, with abdominal movements indicating effective diaphragmatic breathing. The normal respiratory rate for a newborn is considered to be 25 to 35 breaths per minute. Therefore, documenting the newborn's respiratory breathing as "Regular, abdominal, 25 to 35 breaths/min" would accurately represent a normal finding.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a baby's life. Breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies that a baby needs for healthy growth and development during this crucial period. Breastfeeding also offers long-term health benefits for both the baby and the mother. It is important for mothers to receive support and education to establish and maintain successful breastfeeding. After the first 6 months, the AAP recommends continuing breastfeeding while introducing appropriate solid foods until at least 12 months of age, or longer if both the mother and baby are willing and able.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For the treatment of herpes simplex virus (type 1 or 2) in a 7-year-old child, the nurse should expect the prescribed medication to include an oral antiviral agent. Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir are commonly used to manage herpes simplex virus infections. These medications help to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, promote healing of lesions, and prevent future outbreaks. Corticosteroids are not typically used in the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections. Oral griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections, not viral infections like herpes simplex virus. Topical and/or systemic antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective against viruses like herpes simplex.