which of the following is the best indicator of a childs nutritional status
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B

1. 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.

2. What factor predisposes an infant to fluid imbalances?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Infants have immature kidneys that are less efficient at concentrating urine, making them more susceptible to fluid imbalances. Their higher surface area to volume ratio also contributes to greater insensible fluid losses.

3. The nurse is teaching a nursing student about standard precautions. Which statement made by the student indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Standard precautions are necessary when dealing with blood, body fluids, and potentially infectious materials. They are not required for routine administration of oral medications unless there is a potential exposure risk.

4. What clinical manifestation should be the most suggestive of acute appendicitis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Colicky, cramping abdominal pain around the umbilicus. This type of pain is a common early sign of acute appendicitis. Rebound tenderness, choice A, is a later sign seen in the physical examination of a patient with appendicitis. Rectal bleeding, as described in choice B, is not typically associated with appendicitis. Abdominal pain that is relieved by eating, as mentioned in choice C, is more indicative of peptic ulcer disease rather than appendicitis.

5. Which clinical manifestations should the nurse anticipate when assessing a child for hypoglycemia?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Shaky feeling and dizziness.' Hypoglycemia in children often presents with symptoms like shakiness, dizziness, sweating, hunger, and irritability. These symptoms occur because the brain and body are deprived of the glucose they need to function properly. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because lethargy, thirst, nausea, and vomiting are not typically primary manifestations of hypoglycemia in children.

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