Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

To assess skin turgor in a 4-year-old child with diarrhea and vomiting, which area should the nurse grasp?

1. The child's sacral area.

2. The top of the child's hand.

3. The child's sternal area.

4. The child's abdomen.

The correct answer is: The child's abdomen.

To assess skin turgor in a 4-year-old child, particularly in the context of dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting, the abdomen is the most appropriate area to grasp. The abdomen represents a site where skin turgor can be easily assessed in a pediatric patient. This region has sufficient subcutaneous tissue, which allows for a more accurate measurement of skin elasticity and hydration status. In young children, the skin on the abdomen remains relatively flexible, making it an ideal location for checking turgor. When gently pinched or lifted, it should promptly return to its normal position if hydration levels are adequate. A slow return or "tenting" of the skin may indicate dehydration, which is especially critical to evaluate in a child experiencing significant fluid losses. Additionally, while other areas like the hand or sternal area can be used to assess turgor, they are not as reliable in younger patients due to anatomical differences and the potential for more variable skin elasticity. The sacral area is generally not preferred for evaluating turgor because of the potential for skin changes related to surface moisture or pressure. By focusing on the abdomen, the assessment can provide a clearer picture of the child's hydration status and overall well-being.