Which of the following is the best indicator of a child's nutritional status?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Mid-upper arm circumference is a good indicator of muscle mass and fat stores, reflecting a child's nutritional status. It is particularly useful in assessing malnutrition, as it is less affected by fluid retention or dehydration compared to other anthropometric measurements. Weight can fluctuate due to factors like hydration status, making it less reliable as a sole indicator of nutritional status. Height reflects growth but may not directly indicate current nutritional status. Head circumference is more related to brain growth and development rather than overall nutritional status.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal in treating nephrotic syndrome in children is to reduce proteinuria. Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by proteinuria, leading to hypoalbuminemia and edema. By reducing proteinuria, kidney damage can be minimized, and symptoms can be managed effectively. Decreasing urine output (Choice A) is not the primary goal, as it does not address the underlying issue of protein loss. Increasing serum albumin (Choice B) is a consequence of reducing proteinuria rather than the primary goal. Increasing blood pressure (Choice D) is not a goal in treating nephrotic syndrome and may even be contraindicated to prevent further kidney damage.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct recommendation for decreasing the number and total volume of emesis in an infant with gastroesophageal reflux is to thicken feedings and enlarge the nipple hole. Thicker feedings can reduce the frequency and volume of emesis by making the food less likely to be regurgitated. Enlarging the nipple hole helps ensure the thickened feedings can pass through. Surgical therapy (Choice A) is not the initial recommendation for managing gastroesophageal reflux in infants. Placing the infant in a prone position for sleep after feeding (Choice B) is not recommended due to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Reducing the frequency of feeding by encouraging larger volumes of formula (Choice D) can exacerbate the reflux symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to notify the healthcare provider immediately. This is important as the removal of the NG tube can disrupt postoperative care, especially in terms of maintaining gastric decompression. Inserting a new NG tube without practitioner direction can be unsafe and is not within the nurse's scope of practice. Similarly, replacing the NG tube or leaving it out should be decided by the healthcare provider to ensure the infant's safety and appropriate postoperative care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Stress management may be helpful. Stress is known to exacerbate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), making stress management an essential part of managing the condition. While dietary modifications can also be beneficial, a low-fiber diet is not universally recommended for IBS, as fiber can be important for some individuals. Milk products may or may not be contributing factors, as food triggers can vary among individuals. Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is not typically the first-line treatment for IBS, as it is more commonly used for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease.