A nurse is caring for an 11-month-old toddler who has been hospitalized for 10 days. After the toddler's mother leaves the room, the nurse observes the toddler sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb. When the nurse approaches the crib, the toddler turns away from the nurse. The nurse should understand that these behaviors indicate which of the following developmental reactions?
Developing autonomy
Regression
Resentment toward the mother
An anxiety reaction
The Correct Answer is B
Incorrect:
A. Developing autonomy:
Rationale: Developing autonomy typically involves a toddler's exploration of their environment and assertion of independence. While seeking comfort in familiar behaviors like thumb-sucking can be a part of autonomy development, the behavior described in the scenario is more indicative of regression, which involves returning to earlier, more infantile behaviors rather than progressing towards independence.
B. Regression:
Rationale: Regression refers to reverting to behaviors characteristic of an earlier stage of development. In this scenario, the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib and sucking her thumb, as well as turning away from the nurse, suggests a regression to earlier comforting behaviors that are typical of younger infants. This regression may be a response to the stress and anxiety of being hospitalized and separated from the mother, seeking comfort in familiar behaviors.
C. Resentment toward the mother:
Rationale: There is no evidence in the scenario to suggest resentment toward the mother. The toddler's behavior of seeking comfort in thumb-sucking and turning away from the nurse is more indicative of distress or regression in response to the hospitalization and separation from the mother rather than directed resentment toward her.
D. An anxiety reaction:
Rationale: The toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb, and turning away from the nurse suggests a response to stress or anxiety rather than an anxiety reaction per se. While anxiety may be a component of the toddler's emotional state, the behavior aligns more closely with regression as a coping mechanism in response to the stressors of hospitalization and separation from the mother.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Why are you feeling so down?": This response may come across as intrusive and may not be well-received by the client. It puts pressure on the client to provide an explanation for their feelings, which they may not be ready or willing to do at that moment.
B. "I understand. I've felt like that before, too": While expressing empathy can be helpful, it's important for the nurse to validate the client's current feelings without making assumptions about their own experiences. This response could inadvertently shift the focus away from the client's feelings and onto the nurse's experiences.
C. "I’ll just sit here with you for a few minutes then.": This is the best response as it acknowledges the client's feelings, respects their desire for solitude, and offers the nurse's presence as a source of support without pressure to talk. Simply being present with the client demonstrates empathy and provides comfort during a difficult time.
D. "It might help you feel better if you talk about it": While encouraging the client to talk about their feelings can be beneficial in some situations, it's essential to respect the client's autonomy and readiness to engage in conversation. In this case, the client has expressed a desire not to talk, so offering unsolicited advice to talk may feel dismissive of their feelings.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A story book about a child who has diabetes. While providing information about diabetes through a storybook may be beneficial for the child's understanding of the condition, it may not directly address the distress experienced after an insulin injection. This option focuses more on education rather than immediate coping with the injection-related distress.
B. A needleless syringe and a doll. This is the correct choice. Providing a needleless syringe and a doll allows the child to engage in pretend play and role-play scenarios related to the insulin injection experience. Through play, the child can express their feelings, fears, and experiences in a safe and non-threatening environment. This type of play activity can help the child gain a sense of control, familiarity, and mastery over the situation, thereby reducing distress and anxiety associated with future injections.
C. A period of play in the playroom. While engaging in play in the playroom may offer the child opportunities for distraction and enjoyment, it may not specifically address the distress experienced after an insulin injection. The effectiveness of this option in helping the child cope with the injection-related distress may depend on the specific activities available in the playroom and the child's preferences.
D. A video game. Playing a video game may provide the child with distraction and entertainment, but it may not directly address the distress experienced after an insulin injection. Additionally, screen time may not be suitable for every child, and the therapeutic benefits of video games in this context may vary.
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