The parents of a 4-month-old infant cannot visit except on ...

[craiczarry]

The parents of a 4-month-old infant cannot visit except on weekends. What action by the nurse indicates an understanding of the emotional needs of a young infant?
 
  a. Place her in a room away from other children.
  b. Assign her to the same nurse as much as possible.
  c. Tell the parents that frequent visiting is unnecessary.
  d. Assign her to different nurses so she will have varied contacts.

Question 2

A 13-year-old child with cystic fibrosis (CF) is a frequent patient on the pediatric unit. This admission, she is sleeping during the daytime and unable to sleep at night. What should be a beneficial strategy for this child?
 
  a. Administer prescribed sedative at night to aid in sleep.
  b. Negotiate a daily schedule that incorporates hospital routine, therapy, and free time.
  c. Have the practitioner speak with the child about the need for rest when receiving therapy for CF.
  d. Arrange a consult with the social worker to determine whether issues at home are interfering with her care.

[gcook]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The infant is developing a sense of trust. This is accomplished by the consistent, loving care of a nurturing person. If the parents are unable to visit, then the same staff nurses should be used as much as possible. Placing her in a room away from other children would isolate the child. The parents should be encouraged to visit. The nurse should describe how the staff will care for the infant in their absence.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Children's response to the disruption of routine during hospitalization is demonstrated in eating, sleeping, and other activities of daily living. The lack of structure is allowing the child to sleep during the day, rather than at night. Most likely the lack of schedule is the problem. The nurse and child can plan a schedule that incorporates all necessary activities, including medications, mealtimes, homework, and patient care procedures. The schedule can then be posted so the child has a ready reference. Sedatives are not usually used with children. The child has a chronic illness and most likely knows the importance of rest. The parents and child can be questioned about changes at home since the last hospitalization.