Which dietary intervention should the nurse anticipate for a child with rickets?

In the context of rickets, which is caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, increasing dietary intake of vitamin D-rich foods is essential. Vitamin D plays a critical role in promoting calcium absorption in the intestines, which is necessary for healthy bone development and maintenance. Children with rickets often experience weak or soft bones due to this deficiency, leading to skeletal deformities and growth problems.

Incorporating foods that are rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks, can help address this deficiency and promote better bone health. This dietary intervention is vital for the child’s overall development and helps in the prevention of further complications associated with rickets, thereby supporting effective treatment and recovery.

The other interventions, such as limiting calcium-rich foods or promoting caffeinated beverages, would not be appropriate or beneficial in managing a condition like rickets. Instead, a focus on enriching the diet with sources of vitamin D is the most suitable approach for addressing the underlying issues of this condition.