Final answer:
The nurse would anticipate abnormal lab values for a child with cystic fibrosis and symptoms like vomiting and headache, including potential electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and glucose level disturbances. Signs of infection and CF exacerbation might also be present.
Step-by-step explanation:
A child with a history of cystic fibrosis (CF) presenting with vomiting, headache, and unusual behavior may have a disturbance in their electrolyte and water balance, potentially leading to a condition known as cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) or other complications. The nurse might anticipate abnormal lab values such as a high serum glucose level, due to poor insulin secretion or insulin resistance, an imbalance in electrolytes like sodium and chloride, as well as possible indicators of dehydration. Additionally, it is important to check for signs of a CF exacerbation which can include changes in complete blood count (CBC), indicating infection or inflammation.
Given the symptoms of vomiting and unusual behavior, the nurse would also be alert to the possibility of an electrolyte imbalance, such as hyponatremia (low sodium level) or hypochloremia (low chloride level), which can occur with prolonged vomiting. Furthermore, headache and changes in behavior can be associated with electrolyte disturbances and/or increased intracranial pressure from possible dehydration. The nurse would closely monitor for any lung infection or gastrointestinal obstruction, which are common complications in patients with CF.