Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

For a child receiving chemotherapy who has anorexia and nausea, what is the most appropriate intervention?

1. Restrict all favorite foods to maintain a strict diet

2. Allow the client to eat whatever the client wants, at any time

3. Encourage the child to eat high-protein meals

4. Administer anti-nausea medication prior to meals

The correct answer is: Allow the client to eat whatever the client wants, at any time

In the context of a child undergoing chemotherapy who is experiencing anorexia and nausea, allowing the client to eat whatever they want at any time can be a beneficial approach. This strategy prioritizes the child's comfort and autonomy, which is crucial when dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy. Children in this situation may have altered taste perceptions, decreased appetite, and strong aversions to certain foods. By allowing them to choose what they want to eat, it can help ensure that they are consuming anything at all, which is often more important than adhering to a strict dietary regimen. The flexibility in food choices can enhance the child’s willingness to eat, thereby potentially reducing the risk of further weight loss or nutritional deficiency. Comfort foods or foods that they prefer might not be nutrient-dense but can be more appealing when dealing with nausea and could encourage some level of caloric intake, which is essential for maintaining energy and supporting recovery. In contrast, enforcing a strict diet or limiting favorite foods can increase feelings of negativity or aversion toward eating, while advocating for high-protein meals exclusively may not take into account the child’s current appetite and preferences. Administering anti-nausea medication before meals is indeed a common practice to help combat nausea, but in this context