A child is being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and ...

[james]

A child is being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and the parents are with the child. Which creates stressors for children and parents in ICUs? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Equipment noise
  b. Privacy
  c. Caring behavior by the nurse
  d. Unfamiliar smells
  e. Sleep deprivation

Question 2

Which should the nurse consider when having consent forms signed for surgery and procedures on children?
 
  a. Only a parent or legal guardian can give consent.
  b. The person giving consent must be at least 18 years old.
  c. The risks and benefits of a procedure are part of the consent process.
  d. A mental age of 7 years or older is required for a consent to be considered informed.

[moormoney]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, D, E
The ICU can create physical and environmental stressors for children and their families. Equipment noise (monitors, suction equipment, telephones, computers), unfamiliar smells (alcohol, adhesive remover, body odors), and sleep deprivation all are stressors found in the ICU. Privacy as opposed to no privacy and a caring nurse as opposed to unkind or thoughtless comments from staff help reduce the stressors of the ICU.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The informed consent must include the nature of the procedure, benefits and risks, and alternatives to the procedure. In special circumstances, such as emancipated minors, the consent can be given by someone younger than 18 years without the parent or legal guardian. A mental age of 7 years is too young for consent to be informed.