When assessing a child’s reaction to illness, it is important for the

QUESTION

When assessing a child’s reaction to illness, it is important for the nurse to

a. observe the interaction between parent and child.
b. recognize that chronological age matches cognitive level.
c. realize that children are more comfortable with female health care providers.
d. recognize that the child’s behavior will be age appropriate.

ANSWER:

ANS: A
Assessing a child’s reaction to illness requires knowing the child’s normal patterns of communication. Interactions are observed between parent and child. Variations occur across situations, so that the child under stress or in a different environment may process information at a lower level than he would under normal conditions. Because two children of the same chronological age may have quite different skills as information processors, the nurse needs to assess level of functioning. Some studies show school-age children are more satisfied if their health care provider is the same gender. A severe illness can cause a child to show behaviors that are reminiscent of an earlier stage of development. A certain amount of regression is normal.