A nurse is caring for an 18-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?

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale

Developing autonomy is a normal developmental milestone for toddlers. However, the behaviors described in the question (sitting quietly, sucking thumb, turning away) are more indicative of regression rather than autonomy.

Choice B rationale

Resentment toward the mother is not a typical developmental reaction for an 18-month-old toddler. The behaviors described are more indicative of regression due to the stress of hospitalization.

Choice C rationale

Anxiety reaction can occur in toddlers who are hospitalized, but the behaviors described (sitting quietly, sucking thumb, turning away) are more indicative of regression.

Choice D rationale

Regression is a common reaction in toddlers who are hospitalized. The behaviors described (sitting quietly, sucking thumb, turning away) are typical signs of regression, where the child reverts to earlier developmental behaviors as a coping mechanism.