A nurse is caring for an adolescent who states an intention to self-harm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Apply wrist restraints to the adolescent.
Collect data about the adolescent's mental status.
Obtain consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should maintain continuous observation of the adolescent.
Choice A reason:
The first and most crucial action when a patient expresses an intention to self-harm is to ensure their safety. By maintaining continuous observation, the nurse can closely monitor the adolescent's behavior and intervene promptly if any signs of self-harm emerge. This action helps prevent immediate harm and allows for timely interventions.
Choice B reason:
Applying wrist restraints to the adolescent (Choice B) would not be appropriate in this situation. Restraints are typically used as a last resort for patients who pose a danger to themselves or others and only when less restrictive measures have failed. In the case of self- harm, using restraints can increase the patient's distress and potentially worsen the situation.
Choice C reason:
Collecting data about the adolescent's mental status (Choice C) is an essential step in understanding their overall condition, but it should not be the first action taken. While gathering data is important for a comprehensive assessment, immediate safety concerns must take precedence.
Choice D reason:
Obtaining consent from the adolescent's guardian for the application of restraints (Choice D) is not the first priority when the patient expresses an intention to self-harm. The focus should be on ensuring the patient's immediate safety, and consent for restraints may be necessary only if other interventions prove inadequate.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Experiences separation anxiety - This is a common behavior seen in toddlers during hospitalization. Being away from their parents or caregivers and being in an unfamiliar environment can lead to feelings of anxiety and distress. Separation anxiety is a natural response for young children who rely on their primary caregivers for comfort and security.
Choice B reason:
Fears a loss of control - Toddlers may feel overwhelmed and fearful when they find themselves in a hospital setting. The loss of control over their daily routines and environment can be frightening for them. They may be unable to understand the reasons behind medical procedures or interventions, further increasing their anxiety.
Choice C reason:
Feels hospitalization is punishment - While some children might have difficulty understanding the reasons for hospitalization, it is less common for them to perceive it as punishment.
Children at this age often lack the cognitive capacity to associate their illness with punishment.
Choice D reason:
Develops body image disturbance - Body image disturbance is not a typical behavior observed in toddlers during hospitalization. This issue is more common in older children or adolescents who may experience changes in their appearance due to medical conditions or treatments.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Rotavirus The nurse does not need to administer the Rotavirus vaccine in this scenario. Rotavirus immunization is typically given to infants between 2 and 6 months of age to protect against severe diarrhea caused by the virus. Since the child in question is 4 years old and up to date on current immunizations, this vaccine is not necessary.
Choice B reason:
Hepatitis B (Hep B) Similarly, the Hepatitis B vaccine is usually given shortly after birth and completed in a series of doses over the first year of life. Since the 4-year-old child is up to date on immunizations, the Hep B vaccine would have already been administered as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule.
Choice C reason:
Varicella The Varicella vaccine, also known as the chickenpox vaccine, is typically given between 12 and 15 months of age and then again at 4 to 6 years old. Since the child is 4 years old and up to date on immunizations, it is now time for them to receive the second dose of the Varicella vaccine, making Choice C the correct answer.
Choice D reason:
Haemophilus influenza (Hib) The Haemophilus influenza (Hib) vaccine is usually given to infants starting at 2 months of age and is administered in multiple doses. By 4 years old, the child would have completed the primary series of the Hib vaccine. Therefore, there is no need to administer this vaccine again.
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