A father brings his son to the emergency department complaining that the child has a fever and severe, foul-smelling diarrhea. The child's only previous health complaint was constipation. The nurse notes abdominal distention and firmness on palpation. Whi
A.
Have the father sign a consent for emergency surgery.
B.
Place the child on NPO status and insert an NG tube.
C.
Prepare to administer intravenous antibiotics.
D.
Start an IV and provide maintenance and replacement fluids.
ANS: D
This child's presentation is consistent with Hirschsprung disease and enterocolitis, which is a serious complication. Although all options are appropriate, the priority is to start an IV and provide fluids. Airway, breathing, and circulation come first.
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