A nurse is assisting with the care of an adolescent. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as high-risk behaviors?

A) I have a difficult time getting my child to eat green vegetables: While it’s common for preschoolers to be selective about food, especially vegetables, this issue does not represent an immediate concern for the child’s health or development. This issue can often be addressed with strategies to encourage healthy eating, but it is not as urgent as other concerns.

B) My child continually asks me the same questions: Repetitive questioning is a normal part of preschool development, as children at this age are curious and often seek reassurance. It reflects their cognitive development as they try to understand the world around them. While it may be tiring for the guardian, it is not an immediate concern.

C) My child still wets the bed at least two times per week: Bedwetting (enuresis) is common among preschool-aged children, and many children do not gain full bladder control until after age 5. This issue is typically addressed if it continues past the age of 5, but it is not a priority at this time.

D) I have noticed that my child is withdrawn since we switched day care providers: This statement indicates a potential emotional or behavioral issue that requires immediate attention. Changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or difficulty adjusting to a new environment. The nurse should prioritize this concern, as it may indicate that the child is having difficulty coping with the transition and may need additional support or evaluation. Addressing emotional well-being is a priority for the nurse.

A) Completely undress the toddler:
Completely undressing a toddler can cause unnecessary distress and anxiety, especially if they are not prepared for the examination. It’s more appropriate to undress the toddler only as needed for the physical exam and allow them to remain clothed or partially clothed whenever possible to help them feel secure.

B) Allow the toddler to handle the equipment:
Allowing a toddler to handle the medical equipment is an excellent way to reduce fear and anxiety. This familiarizes the child with the instruments and allows them to feel more in control of the situation. It also helps in building trust with the nurse, making the examination less intimidating for the toddler.

C) Start the examination with routine immunizations:
Immunizations can be particularly stressful for toddlers, so starting the examination with vaccines is not the best approach. It’s better to begin with non-invasive procedures, such as listening to the heart or measuring the toddler’s height and weight, to build rapport before proceeding to any painful procedures.

D) Thoroughly explain each procedure to the toddler:
While it’s important to explain the examination to the toddler in simple, age-appropriate language, toddlers typically have a limited understanding of detailed explanations. Over-explaining may increase anxiety. Instead, it's better to keep things brief and comforting, using simple phrases, and focus on creating a positive experience.