ATI Pediatrics Test Bank Related

Review ATI Pediatrics Test Bank related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a child with kwashiorkor disease. Which assessment findings should the nurse expect?

  • A. Thin wasted extremities with a prominent abdomen
  • B. Constipation
  • C. Elevated hemoglobin
  • D. High levels of protein
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Kwashiorkor is a form of severe acute malnutrition characterized by a deficiency in protein intake, leading to a protein-energy malnutrition. One of the hallmark signs of kwashiorkor is an enlarged, protruding abdomen due to fluid retention in the tissues (edema), giving the appearance of a swollen belly. Additionally, individuals with kwashiorkor often have thin, wasted extremities while their abdomen appears disproportionately distended. This is known as the "big belly, skinny limbs" presentation, which arises due to the imbalance of protein and energy intake. Therefore, the nurse assessing a child with kwashiorkor should expect to find thin wasted extremities with a prominent abdomen.