A school-age client experiences a near-drowning episode and is ...

[jessicacav]

A school-age client experiences a near-drowning episode and is admitted to the pediatric intensive-care unit (PICU). The parents express guilt over the near drowning of their child. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  1. You will need to watch the child more closely.
  2. Tell me more about your feelings related to the accident.
  3. The child will be fine, so don't worry.
  4. Why did you let the child almost drown?

Question 2

A school-age client sustains a basilar skull fracture. Which symptom is a priority for this nurse to assess for when providing care to this client?
 
  1. Cerebral spinal fluid leakage from the nose or ears
  2. Headache
  3. Transient confusion
  4. Periorbital ecchymosis

[Kimmy]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: In near-drowning cases, the nurse should be nonjudgmental and provide a forum for parents to express guilt. Telling the parents to watch the child more closely or asking them why they let the child almost drown is judgmental. Saying the child will be fine may not be true. The nurse should reassure the parents that the child is receiving all possible medical treatment.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: Cerebral spinal fluid leakage could be present from the nose or ears and, if it persists, may indicate that surgical repair will be needed. Headache, transient confusion, and periorbital ecchymosis are findings that commonly present with a basilar skull fracture but do not indicate that surgical repair will be needed.