A school-age child with diarrhea has been rehydrated. The nurse ...

[bcretired]

A school-age child with diarrhea has been rehydrated. The nurse is discussing the child's diet with the family. What food or beverage should be tolerated best?
 
  a. Clear fluids
  b. Carbonated drinks
  c. Applesauce and milk
  d. Easily digested foods

Question 2

What condition is often associated with severe diarrhea?
 
  a. Metabolic acidosis
  b. Metabolic alkalosis
  c. Respiratory acidosis
  d. Respiratory alkalosis

[adammoses97]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Easily digested foods such as cereals, cooked vegetables, and meats should be provided for the child. Early reintroduction of nutrients is desirable. Continued feeding or reintroduction of a regular diet has no adverse effects and actually lessens the severity and duration of the illness. Clear fluids (e.g., fruit juices and gelatin) and carbonated drinks have high carbohydrate content and few electrolytes. Caffeinated beverages should be avoided because caffeine is a mild diuretic. In some children, lactose intolerance will develop with diarrhea, and cow's milk should be avoided in the recovery stage.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Metabolic acidosis results from the increased absorption of short-chain fatty acids produced in the colon. There is an increase in lactic acid from tissue hypoxia secondary to hypovolemia. Bicarbonate is lost through the stool. Ketosis results from fat metabolism when glycogen stores are depleted. Metabolic alkalosis and respiratory alkalosis do not occur from severe diarrhea.