Stevens – Acute
Gastrointestinal Illness in an
18-Month-Old
Complete Assignment Guide with Expert Answers and
Rationales
ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
Case Study: Layla Stevens – 18-Month-Old Female
Reason for Encounter: Vomiting and Diarrhea
Primary Diagnosis: Acute Viral Gastroenteritis with Moderate Dehydration
Course: Advanced Health Assessment / Pediatric Primary Care
Institution: Chamberlain University / Walden University / Similar MSN Programs
Academic Year: 2025/2026
PATIENT OVERVIEW
Characteristic Detail
Name Layla Stevens
, Characteristic Detail
Age 18 months
Sex Female
Height 81 cm (2'8") - 50th-75th percentile
Weight 10.2-11.8 kg (22.5-26 lbs) - 50th-75th percentile
Chief Complaint "Vomiting and diarrhea for the past two days"
Setting Outpatient Clinic with laboratory capabilities
SECTION 1: SUBJECTIVE DATA (S)
History of Presenting Illness (HPI) – OLD CARTS Framework
Component Findings
Onset Symptoms began approximately 48 hours ago
Location Gastrointestinal tract
Vomiting: 5-6 episodes day 1, 2-3 episodes day 2. Diarrhea: 8-10 stools/day, large
Duration
volume, watery consistency
Vomiting: Non-bilious, non-bloody. Diarrhea: Watery, yellow-brown, without blood o
Character
mucus
Aggravating Attempts to feed solids worsen vomiting; drinking small amounts of clear liquids is
Factors tolerated briefly (1-2 sips then refuses or vomits within 30-60 minutes)