A nurse is assessing a toddler who has suspected lead poisoning. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect the client to manifest with acute lead poisoning?

A. Imaginary playmates:

Toddlers typically do not engage in activities involving imaginary playmates. This behavior is more common in preschool-aged children.

B. Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt:

Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt occurs during the preschool years, typically around ages 3 to 5. It involves children developing a sense of initiative to take on new tasks and challenges, balanced with feelings of guilt if they are overly criticized or restricted.

C. Negative behaviors characterized by the need for autonomy:

This is the correct answer. Toddlers are in Erikson's stage of autonomy versus shame and doubt. During this stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 1 and 3, toddlers strive to gain independence and autonomy. They may exhibit negative behaviors, such as temper tantrums or defiance, as they assert their independence and explore their environment.

D. Demonstrations of sexual curiosity:

Demonstrations of sexual curiosity typically emerge later in childhood, around the preschool years or later. Toddlers are not typically focused on sexual curiosity during this stage of development.

A. Withhold fluids until the client demonstrates a gag reflex: Withholding fluids until the gag reflex returns is not an appropriate intervention to prevent aspiration. The presence of a gag reflex does not guarantee the absence of aspiration risk. Additionally, depriving the client of fluids can lead to dehydration, which is not conducive to recovery.

B. Suction the nasopharynx as needed: This is the correct intervention to prevent aspiration in a client who is postoperative following anesthesia. Suctioning the nasopharynx helps remove secretions or blood that could obstruct the airway and lead to aspiration.

C. Perform chest physiotherapy: While chest physiotherapy may be beneficial for promoting lung expansion and clearing respiratory secretions, it is not specifically aimed at preventing aspiration. This intervention is more commonly used to manage conditions such as pneumonia or cystic fibrosis.

D. Place a bedside humidifier at the head of the client's bed: Using a bedside humidifier may help maintain airway moisture, but it does not directly address the risk of aspiration. While it can be a comfort measure, it is not a primary intervention for preventing aspiration in a postoperative client.