A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute laryngotracheobonchitis after a repair of an intussusception. Which of the indicates that the treatment has been effective?

A. Constant need to talk about the event. While individuals with PTSD may experience intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to the traumatic event, a constant need to talk about the event is not universally characteristic. Some individuals with PTSD may avoid discussing the traumatic event altogether due to the distress it causes them, while others may find it helpful to talk about it in therapy or support groups.

B. Increasing feelings of anger. This is the correct choice. Feelings of anger and irritability are common symptoms of PTSD. Individuals may experience heightened levels of anger as a result of feeling violated, powerless, or betrayed by the traumatic event. Anger may be directed toward the perpetrator, oneself, or others, and it can contribute to difficulties in interpersonal relationships and daily functioning.

C. Sleeping 12 hr or more each day. While sleep disturbances are common in PTSD, they typically manifest as insomnia, nightmares, or restless sleep rather than excessive sleep. Individuals with PTSD may struggle to fall asleep, experience frequent awakenings during the night, or have nightmares related to the traumatic event. Excessive sleeping is not typically associated with PTSD.

D. Increasing sense of attachment to others. Individuals with PTSD may experience difficulties in forming or maintaining relationships due to symptoms such as emotional numbing, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and difficulties in trusting others. While some individuals may seek support from loved ones, an increasing sense of attachment to others is not typically an expected finding in PTSD.

A. Restrain the child physically: Physically restraining a toddler during a temper tantrum can escalate the situation and may lead to the child feeling scared or more frustrated. It's important to avoid physical force as it can be traumatic for the child and potentially harmful.

B. Ignore the temper tantrums: Ignoring temper tantrums might work in some situations, but it's not always the most effective strategy. Toddlers often tantrum to seek attention or express frustration, and ignoring them entirely may not address the underlying issue. Additionally, consistent ignoring can lead to feelings of abandonment or exacerbate the behavior.

C. Distract the child by offering to play a game: Distraction can be an effective technique for managing temper tantrums in toddlers. Offering to engage the child in a fun activity or game can redirect their focus away from the source of frustration, helping to de-escalate the situation and promote positive behavior.

D. Tell the child that temper tantrums are not acceptable: While it's important to set boundaries and teach appropriate behavior, telling a toddler that temper tantrums are not acceptable may not effectively address the immediate situation. Toddlers may not fully understand or be able to control their emotions, so simply telling them that tantrums are unacceptable without providing alternative coping strategies is unlikely to be effective.