Pediatric Nursing Demystified

Coombs test: Negative

Stool culture: Positive for Escherichia coli

Treatment

Administer corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance to prevent seizures.

Administer antihypertensive if patient has hypertension.

Reduce fluid and salt intake if patient has hypertension.

Dialysis if patient is in renal failure.

Nursing Intervention

Daily weights.

Strict intake and output.

Maintain hydration.

Monitor vital signs every 4 hours.

Monitor for renal failure.

Explain the disorder and treatment to the family.

Nursing alert Antibiotics are administered only if the underlying infection is

caused by Shigella dysenteriae.

Nephrotic Syndrome

What Went Wrong?

Nephrotic syndrome occurs when albuminis released by the kidneys into the

urine, resulting in decreased albumin in blood because the glomerular filtra-

tion membrane is injured, thus causing a fluid switch and edema because of

the decreased albumin in the blood.

A number of disorders can cause nephritic syndrome, including glomeru-

lonephritis, diabetes mellitus, allergic reactions, toxins, and circulatory dis-

ease. Nephrotic syndrome occurs in children of preschool age.

Signs and Symptoms

Weight gain

Decreased urination

Dark color urine

Lethargy

Irritability

Activity intolerance

Edema

Test Results

Urine analysis: Presence of protein and blood and elevated specific

gravity

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CHAPTER 12/ Genitourinary Conditions^265