The father of a 12-year-old child tells the nurse that he is ...

[fahad]

The father of a 12-year-old child tells the nurse that he is concerned about his son getting fat. His son is at the 50th percentile for height and the 75th percentile for weight on the growth chart. The most appropriate nursing action is to:
 
  a. reassure the father that his child is not fat.
  b. reassure the father that his child is just growing.
  c. suggest a low-calorie, low-fat diet.
  d. explain that this is typical of the growth pattern of boys at this age.

Question 2

A 9-year-old girl often comes to the school nurse complaining of stomach pains. Her teacher says she is completing her school work satisfactorily but lately has been somewhat aggressive and stubborn in the classroom.
 
  The school nurse should recognize this as:
  a. signs of stress.
  b. developmental delay.
  c. physical problem causing emotional stress.
  d. lack of adjustment to school environment.

[pangili4]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
This is a characteristic pattern of growth in preadolescent boys, where the growth in height has slowed in preparation for the pubertal growth spurt, but weight is still gained. The nurse should review this with both the father and the child and develop a plan to maintain physical exercise and a balanced diet. It is false reassurance to tell the father that his son is not fat. His weight is high for his height. The child needs to maintain his physical activity. The father is concerned, so an explanation is required. A nutritional diet with physical activity should be sufficient to maintain his balance.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Signs of stress include stomach pains or headache, sleep problems, bed-wetting, changes in eating habits, aggressive or stubborn behavior, reluctance to participate, or regression to early behaviors. This child is exhibiting signs of stress.