Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What should be included in the plan of care for an 18-month-old child with moderate diarrhea?

1. Encourage the child to drink apple juice and sports drinks

2. Have the child eat only bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast

3. Ensure that all diapers are weighed

4. Keep the child NPO for 4-6 hours

The correct answer is: Ensure that all diapers are weighed

Including the weighing of all diapers in the plan of care for an 18-month-old child with moderate diarrhea is crucial for several reasons. Weighing diapers provides a clear, quantifiable measure of the child's urine output, which is an essential tool in assessing hydration status. In children with diarrhea, there is a significant risk of dehydration due to fluid loss. By monitoring the weight of the wet diapers, healthcare providers can determine the volume of fluid loss and make informed decisions about the need for rehydration. This practice also helps in evaluating the effectiveness of any ongoing treatment, such as hydration therapy. If the child's diaper weight indicates a decrease in fluid output or signs of dehydration, further interventions, including the potential need for intravenous fluids, can be initiated promptly. Therefore, this aspect of care is integral to ensuring the child’s safety and well-being during a situation that could quickly escalate if not properly monitored. Other options may lack direct effectiveness in managing diarrhea or assessing hydration in a systematic way, which is why the emphasis on weighing diapers stands out as the most pertinent action in this clinical scenario.