What finding should the nurse expect in an 8-year-old child diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis?

In a child diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis, one of the hallmark findings is periorbital edema. This condition involves inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidneys, which can lead to an increase in capillary permeability. As fluid leaks into the interstitial tissues, it often accumulates in areas around the eyes, leading to characteristic swelling in the periorbital region. This edema is typically more pronounced in the morning and can also occur in other areas of the body, such as the legs, but periorbital swelling is a classic sign that nurses and healthcare providers are particularly vigilant for.

Other symptoms associated with acute glomerulonephritis may include hematuria (blood in the urine), proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), hypertension, and decreased urine output. While abdominal pain, coughing, and diarrhea may occur due to various conditions, they are not specific findings associated with acute glomerulonephritis. Thus, recognizing periorbital edema as a key indicator helps guide the assessment and management of this condition in pediatric patients.