A nurse is caring for an 8-year-old child on an inpatient pediatric unit. Exhibits Click to highlight the findings that indicate the client requires immediate follow-up. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again Body System Findings Integumentary Skin feels cool to the touch. Capillary refill 3 seconds in left foot Dressing on left hand shows small amount of moisture through gauze. Vital Signs Blood pressure 102/50 mm Hg Temperature 35.8° C (96.4° F) Respiratory rate 20/min Genitourinary Output of 25 mL dark amber urine through catheter
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale for correct choices: Skin feels cool to the touch: Cool skin indicates poor peripheral perfusion, which can signal early hypovolemic shock in a child with burns. Prompt assessment and interventions, such as fluid resuscitation, are necessary. Capillary refill 3 seconds in left foot: Delayed capillary refill reflects compromised circulation and decreased tissue perfusion. Early recognition and intervention help prevent progression to shock. Blood pressure 102/50 mm Hg: Mild hypotension combined with tachycardia, cool skin, and delayed capillary refill suggests early hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening complication requiring immediate attention. Temperature 35.8° C (96.4° F): Hypothermia can occur due to heat loss from burn injuries, increasing the risk for coagulopathy, impaired wound healing, and further hemodynamic instability. Output of 25 mL dark amber urine through catheter: Low and concentrated urine output indicates possible dehydration or reduced renal perfusion, which can progress to acute kidney injury if not addressed urgently. Rationale for incorrect choices: Respiratory rate 20/min: Although slightly decreased from admission, this is within a near-normal range for an 8-year-old and not immediately concerning. Continuous monitoring is appropriate, but it is not an urgent priority compared with perfusion and hemodynamic indicators. Dressing on left hand shows small amount of moisture through gauze: Minor moisture in the dressing may reflect mild wound exudate, which requires routine monitoring and dressing changes. It does not indicate an immediate life-threatening risk.