Author Question: A child's parents ask the nurse many questions about their child's illness and its management. The ... (Read 258 times)

nummyann · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A child's parents ask the nurse many questions about their child's illness and its management. The nurse does not know enough to answer all the questions. What nursing action is most appropriate at this time?

a. Tell them, I don't know, but I will find out.
b. Suggest that they ask the physician these questions.
c. Explain that the nurse cannot be expected to know everything.
d. Answer questions vaguely so they do not lose confidence in the nurse.

Question 2

The nurse outlines short- and long-term goals for a 10-year-old child with many complex health problems. Who should agree on these goals?

a. Family and nurse
b. Child, family, and nurse
c. All professionals involved
d. Child, family, and all professionals involved

nixon_s · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Questions from parents should be answered in a straightforward manner. Stating I don't know or I'll find out is better than pretending to know or giving excuses. Suggesting that they ask the physician these questions is not supportive of the family. The nurse's role is to assist the parents in obtaining accurate information about their child's illness and its management. Although the nurse cannot be expected to know everything, it is an unprofessional attitude to state this. Nurses must provide accurate information to the extent possible. Vague answers are not helpful to the family.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
In the home, the family is a partner in each step of the nursing process. The family priorities should guide the planning process. Both short- and long-term goals should be outlined and agreed on by the child, family, and professionals involved. Elimination of any one of these groups can potentially create a care plan that does not meet the needs of the child and family.