The parents of a newly admitted patient on the pediatric unit are angry and upset about their child's diagnosis. The child has been diagnosed with a serious chronic illness.
One parent is weeping, asking, Are they sure? The other is pounding his fist into his hand, saying over and over, It's not fair. I love him too much. It's not fair. Which of the following would be an appropriate response for the nurse in this situation?
A) Stay in the room but say nothing.
B) Leave them alone for a while until they calm down.
C) Tell them that most children do fine for years with the illness and explain that they will adjust to the child's special needs.
D) Acknowledge their sadness and their anger and let them know that the staff is available for their support.
Question 2
Eight-year-old Tasha, who has a chronic illness, is returning home after an extended hospital stay. She tires easily but is mobile and active when she has energy.
During her hospital stay, the nurse has noted that Tasha enjoys doing projects and crafts. Of the following suggestions, which would be most appropriate for the nurse to suggest to Tasha's caregivers? The nurse would suggest that the caregivers:
A) find a local Brownie troop and talk to the leader about including Tasha in activities with all other troop members but making sure she rests if necessary.
B) find an art teacher who can come to the home to help Tasha explore art projects.
C) go to the local library and get some children's craft books to use to entertain Tasha.
D) arrange for Tasha to take home some of the tools and supplies she has enjoyed working with while hospitalized.
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