What should a nurse monitor for in a toddler with RSV during admission?

Monitoring fluid intake in a toddler with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is crucial because this viral infection can lead to respiratory distress and increased work of breathing, which may subsequently affect the child's ability to maintain adequate hydration. RSV can cause airway inflammation and increased mucus production, leading to difficulty in swallowing and potential dehydration. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to closely monitor the toddler’s fluid intake, ensuring that they are receiving enough fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if they are unable to take in fluids orally or if they are experiencing increased respiratory effort.

The other options, while they may hold some relevance in specific contexts, do not have the same direct impact on the management of a toddler with RSV. Sensitivity to light is more concerning in conditions like meningitis or specific neurological disorders, and balance and coordination are not typically a concern with respiratory illnesses like RSV. Temperature variations can occur, but monitoring fluid intake directly addresses the primary concern of maintaining hydration in a child experiencing respiratory infection symptoms.