A mother calls the pediatric nurse. Her child who is in day care has experienced chronic diarrhea that is watery, greasy, and foul smelling. The child complains of stomachache, has flatulence, and is losing weight. Another child in the day care has the same symptoms, and the mother also has some of these symptoms. The pediatric nurse will suspect which of the following causes of the problem?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are characteristic of giardiasis, a parasitic infection caused by Giardia lamblia. This infection often presents with chronic diarrhea, greasy stools, abdominal discomfort, and weight loss. It can spread in day care centers through contaminated water or food and from person to person.

A Mother Calls the Pediatric Nurse