Question

What instructions should the nurse give the parent, according to evidence-based practice for this situation?

1) Limit the child's activities, withhold oral feedings, and call the clinic in 4 hours.
2) Wrap the child snugly, offer sugar water, and bring the child to the clinic immediately.
3) Allow the child to continue activities, withhold oral feedings for 24 hours, and call the clinic tomorrow.
4) Continue the child's feedings as usual, observe the frequency of stools, and bring the child to the clinic tomorrow if the diarrhea continues.

Answer 1

According to evidence-based practice, the nurse should instruct the parent to continue the child's feedings as usual, observe the frequency of stools, and bring the child to the clinic tomorrow if the diarrhea continues.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on evidence-based practice, the nurse should give the parent the following instructions:

1. Limit the child's activities, withhold oral feedings, and call the clinic in 4 hours. This option is incorrect because limiting activities and withholding oral feedings may worsen the child's condition and delay appropriate medical intervention.
2. Wrap the child snugly, offer sugar water, and bring the child to the clinic immediately. This option is also incorrect because wrapping the child snugly and offering sugar water are not evidence-based practices for managing acute gastroenteritis.
3. Allow the child to continue activities, withhold oral feedings for 24 hours, and call the clinic tomorrow. This option is incorrect because it suggests withholding oral feedings for 24 hours, which can lead to dehydration and worsen the child's condition.
4. Continue the child's feedings as usual, observe the frequency of stools, and bring the child to the clinic tomorrow if the diarrhea continues. This is the correct option based on evidence-based practice. Continuing the child's feedings as usual and observing the frequency of stools can help monitor the child's condition. If the diarrhea continues, it is recommended to bring the child to the clinic for further evaluation and treatment.