What is a common nursing intervention for a child diagnosed with pneumonia?

Encouraging deep breathing exercises is a common nursing intervention for a child diagnosed with pneumonia because these exercises help improve lung expansion, promote oxygenation, and facilitate the clearance of secretions. When a child is encouraged to take deep breaths, it helps to open up the alveoli in the lungs that may be collapsed or under-ventilated due to the inflammation and fluid buildup associated with pneumonia. This practice can aid in preventing complications such as atelectasis and can enhance overall respiratory function.

In the context of caring for a child with pneumonia, deep breathing exercises also play a role in patient education, as they empower the child to take an active role in their recovery. Additionally, these exercises can be combined with activities like using incentive spirometry, which further motivates the child to make deep breaths and can lead to quicker recovery times.

The other options listed do not align with best practices for managing pneumonia in children. For example, restricting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and may exacerbate the child’s condition. Administering only oral medication ignores the potential need for IV fluids or antibiotic therapy that may be necessary in more severe cases of pneumonia. Avoiding any form of activity is not typically recommended, as some level of movement or activity can be beneficial