The nurse has taught a child and his parents with gastroenteritis and dehydration about dietary management.
Which of the following menu options selected by the client would indicate a correct understanding of the teaching?
The nurse has taught a child and his parents with gastroenteritis and dehydration about dietary management.
Which of the following menu options selected by the client would indicate a correct understanding of the teaching?
A. popcorn
[1%]
B. tomato soup
[9%]
C. string cheese
[2%]
D. watermelon slices
[87%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Nutrition
Lesson
Nutrition
Client Need
Test Plan
Basic Care and Comfort
Related Topic
Nutrition and Oral Hydration
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice D is correct. Watermelon comprises over 90% water and provides natural sugars and electrolytes, making it an appropriate choice for rehydration after gastroenteritis. It is gentle on the gastrointestinal tract, easy to digest, and helps replenish fluids lost during diarrhea or vomiting.
Choice A is incorrect. Popcorn is a high-fiber, rough food that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, especially after gastroenteritis. It is not hydrating and may be difficult to tolerate during recovery.
Choice B is incorrect. While fluids are encouraged, tomato soup is acidic and may irritate the stomach lining. It also may be high in sodium, which is not ideal for children recovering from dehydration unless tailored for rehydration purposes.
Choice C is incorrect. Cheese is high in fat and lactose, which can exacerbate diarrhea in children recovering from gastroenteritis, particularly if they are temporarily lactose-intolerant post-infection.
Learning Objective
Select appropriate dietary choices that support hydration and gastrointestinal recovery in a pediatric client following an episode of gastroenteritis, demonstrating understanding of safe refeeding principles.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Clear Liquids
3.4 Dietary Restrictions & Progression
Additional Info
For children with a gastrointestinal illness leading to dehydration (or to prevent dehydration), the following is recommended:
✓ Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are preferred for rehydration due to their optimal electrolyte and glucose composition.
✓ Avoid sugary drinks (e.g., sodas, undiluted juice), which can worsen diarrhea due to osmotic load.
✓ Watermelon, banana, pineapple, and peeled apple slices are recommended.
