A child with severe undernutrition has a low blood glucose level but is conscious and able to swallow. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: A. Give an appropriate glucose-containing feed promptly

  • A. Give an appropriate glucose-containing feed promptly
  • B. Withhold all oral intake for eight hours
  • C. Encourage vigorous physical activity
  • D. Give a high-protein meal immediately

Explanation

Hypoglycaemia is an immediate threat to the brain, so a conscious child who can swallow should receive an appropriate glucose-containing feed promptly according to the facility protocol. A large high-protein meal is not the first treatment, and withholding food or encouraging activity increases risk.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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About Childhood Nutrition and Malnutrition

Childhood nutrition covers essential nutrients, breastfeeding, complementary feeding, dietary assessment, growth monitoring and age-appropriate feeding practices. Questions distinguish protein-energy malnutrition, including marasmus and kwashiorkor, from micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, vitamin A, vitamin D and iodine deficiency, using clinical signs and anthropometric findings.

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