A nurse at an urgent care clinic is caring for a child who hit her head on the playground at school 30 minutes ago. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

Choice A rationale:
Occupational therapy is the appropriate referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis who is having difficulty feeding themselves. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can lead to joint inflammation and deformities. Occupational therapy focuses on helping individuals improve their ability to perform daily activities, which includes activities like feeding, dressing, and grooming. Occupational therapists work with patients to develop strategies and use adaptive equipment to make these tasks more manageable. In the case of an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis, occupational therapy can provide techniques and tools to facilitate feeding independently despite joint limitations.
Choice B rationale:
Physical therapy primarily focuses on improving mobility, strength, and function in individuals with musculoskeletal issues. While physical therapy could be beneficial for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis to address joint mobility and muscle strength, it might not directly address the difficulty in feeding. Therefore, although physical therapy can be a helpful component of care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, it might not be the first choice for addressing feeding difficulties.
Choice C rationale:
Speech therapy is not the most appropriate referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis experiencing feeding difficulties. Speech therapy primarily addresses communication and swallowing disorders. While swallowing difficulties might be relevant in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis due to potential joint involvement in the jaw, the primary focus should be on addressing joint limitations and adaptive techniques for feeding, making occupational therapy a more suitable referral.
Choice D rationale:
A case manager is not the recommended referral for an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis and feeding difficulties. Case managers typically coordinate and facilitate various aspects of a patient's care, such as arranging appointments and services. While case managers play a valuable role in healthcare, the immediate concern of feeding difficulties in an adolescent with rheumatoid arthritis is best addressed through specialized interventions like occupational therapy.

The correct answer is choice D, wooden building blocks.

Choice A rationale:

Colored paper and safety scissors are not appropriate for an 18-month-old child due to safety concerns. At this age, children are still developing fine motor skills and coordination, and the use of scissors, even safety ones, poses a risk of injury.

Choice B rationale:

Stringing beads is not suitable for an 18-month-old child as it requires more advanced fine motor skills and could pose a choking hazard. Children at this age are still prone to exploring objects by putting them in their mouths.

Choice C rationale:

Alphabet flash cards are not the best choice for an 18-month-old child with pneumonia. While flash cards can be educational, they are more suited for older children who are beginning to learn letters and words. At 18 months, play should focus on sensory and motor skill development rather than academic learning.

Choice D rationale:

Wooden building blocks are the most appropriate choice for an 18-month-old child. They encourage play that is developmentally supportive, promoting fine motor skills and creativity. Blocks can be easily handled by small hands, and there is no risk of injury or choking. Additionally, building and knocking down block towers can provide a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment for the child.