A nurse is caring for a 9-year-old client who is immediately postoperative. The client is nonverbal and has both cognitive and developmental delays. Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to evaluate the client's pain?

Adolescents tend to believe their own actions might have caused their terminal illness. Choice A reason:

This statement reflects a common developmental focus for adolescents, who are often navigating issues related to identity and self-image. While they are aware of their illness, many may prioritize concerns about how they look and how they are perceived by others. This can be a significant aspect of their experience during a terminal illness.

Choice B reason:

Many adolescents imagine death as a type of monster. Although this statement acknowledges a common perception of death among some adolescents, it is not the best choice for reinforcing teaching about the perception of death in the context of a terminal illness. The focus should be on more concrete and realistic aspects of death and its implications.

Choice C reason:

This statement does reflect a valid concern but may not be as prevalent as the concern with appearance in this age group. Many adolescents, especially in a terminal situation, may focus on more immediate concerns, such as how they are perceived.

Choice D reason:

Many adolescents don't understand that death is permanent. While this statement may be true for some adolescents who are still developing a full comprehension of death, it is not the most suitable choice for this scenario. In the context of a terminal illness, it is essential to acknowledge that the adolescent likely has a clear understanding of the finality of death.

Choice A reason:

Washing off the zinc oxide ointment with each diaper change would not be beneficial for the infant's diaper dermatitis. Zinc oxide ointment forms a protective barrier on the skin, and frequent washing could remove this barrier, reducing its effectiveness in promoting healing and protecting the irritated skin.

Choice B reason:

Shaking talcum powder onto the reddened areas is not a suitable approach. Talcum powder can further irritate the skin and worsen the diaper dermatitis. It is best to avoid using talcum powder on an infant's delicate skin.

Choice C reason:

Using a hair dryer, even on the lowest setting, to dry the diaper area is not recommended. The hot air from the hair dryer can be too harsh for the infant's sensitive skin and might exacerbate the irritation. It is safer to let the diaper area air dry naturally or pat it gently with a soft cloth.

Choice D reason:

This is the correct choice. Using moist disposable wipes that are detergent-free is a suitable option for cleaning the infant's diaper area. Detergent-free wipes are gentle on the skin and less likely to cause further irritation. Additionally, keeping the area clean and dry is essential for managing diaper dermatitis, and these wipes can help achieve that without causing harm.