A toddler who has just been admitted to the pediatric unit is crying a

A toddler who has just been admitted to the pediatric unit is crying and scared. No treatment has been initiated at this point. The nurse needs to start an IV and the parent asks, “Will this be painful to my child?”

In practicing veracity, the nurse responds:
1. “I won’t lie to you. It may be easier for you if you step out until we get the line in.”
2. “We’ll take every care not to hurt your child.”
3. “It shouldn’t be too bad and I’ll be quick.”
4. “We do this all the time, so don’t worry.”

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Veracity refers to telling the truth. Even though telling the truth may frighten the parent, starting an IV on a frightened, scared, ill child is a difficult task. Because of the developmental stage, any explanation given by the nurse won’t be understood. Being honest to the parent will help the nurse gain trust and will outweigh any benefits that may be gained by downplaying the situation.
Rationale 2: Saying that the nurse will everything possible not to hurt the child will not negate the fact that it will hurt. A needle going into a vein is not a comfortable procedure.
Rationale 3: Saying that the nurse will preform the task quickly is not a sufficient answer to the parent. A needle going into a vein is not a comfortable procedure. The nurse really doesn’t know how bad it will hurt the child.
Rationale 4: Telling the parent not to worry is pointless.