Question

The emergency department nurse is assessing a child who has presented with a 2-day history of nausea and vomiting with pain that is isolated to the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. Which action is most appropriate?

a. Encourage fluid intake.
b. Administer antacids as ordered.
c. Assess the child's usual urinary voiding pattern.
d. Prepare the child for admission to the hospital.

Answer 1

Assess the child's usual urinary voiding pattern. (option c)

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate action for the emergency department nurse to take when assessing a child with a 2-day history of nausea and vomiting with pain isolated to the right upper quadrant of the abdomen is to assess the child's usual urinary voiding pattern (Option C). This is because the symptoms described may indicate a potential urinary tract infection or kidney problem, which can cause pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. By assessing the child's urinary voiding pattern, the nurse can gather important information for further evaluation and determine the best course of action.