A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has a history of conduct disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse take while caring for the child? (Select all that apply.).

Choice A rationale:

An anxiety reaction is the most appropriate explanation for the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb, and turning away from the nurse. These behaviors suggest that the toddler is experiencing anxiety due to the absence of her mother. Sucking the thumb is a common self-soothing mechanism in young children, and the behavior of turning away from the nurse can be seen as an attempt to cope with the separation.

Choice B rationale:

Resentment toward the mother is less likely in this context, as the toddler's behavior is more indicative of distress and anxiety related to separation from her mother rather than directed resentment.

Choice C rationale:

Developing autonomy is not the primary explanation for these behaviors. While developing autonomy is an important developmental milestone for toddlers, the described behavior is more suggestive of anxiety and coping with separation rather than a deliberate expression of autonomy.

Choice D rationale:

Regression refers to reverting to an earlier developmental stage in response to stress or difficulty. While regression can occur in response to hospitalization and separation from caregivers, the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly and sucking her thumb is better explained by anxiety than by regression to an earlier developmental stage.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: This statement reflects anger and frustration, which are characteristic of the anger stage of grief. The individual is expressing disbelief in the doctor's competence but is not denying the reality of their diagnosis.

Choice B rationale: This statement indicates acceptance and acknowledgment of the physical effects of the disease. The client recognizes their lack of energy but is not denying their condition, suggesting they are in a more advanced stage of the grieving process.

Choice C rationale: This statement reflects acceptance of the situation and gratitude towards the doctor. The client acknowledges the efforts made by the medical team and recognizes the inevitability of their condition, indicating they are in the acceptance stage of grief.

Choice D rationale: This statement indicates denial as the client doubts the doctor's prognosis and believes the doctor is exaggerating. Denial is a common initial reaction where the individual struggles to accept the reality of their diagnosis, instead choosing to believe it is not as severe.