A nurse is caring for an infant who has a tracheoesophageal fistula. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply)

Choice A: Tell me more about what you are thinking

This response is the most appropriate because it opens up a dialogue with the adolescent, allowing them to express their fears and concerns. It shows empathy and provides emotional support, which is crucial in such a sensitive situation. By encouraging the adolescent to share their thoughts, the nurse can better understand their emotional state and provide appropriate support and information.

Choice B: Your doctor can tell you about your prognosis

While it is true that the doctor can provide detailed information about the prognosis, this response might come across as dismissive. It does not address the adolescent’s immediate emotional needs or provide the comfort and support they are seeking. The nurse’s role includes providing emotional support and facilitating communication, making this response less effective in addressing the adolescent’s concerns.

Choice C: You should just focus on getting better

This response is not appropriate because it dismisses the adolescent’s fears and concerns. It implies that their feelings are not valid and that they should ignore their worries. This can lead to increased anxiety and a sense of isolation. It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the adolescent’s feelings and provide a safe space for them to express their emotions.

Choice D: You should discuss this with your parents when they return

While involving the parents in such discussions is important, this response does not address the adolescent’s immediate need for support and reassurance. It may make the adolescent feel that their concerns are being brushed aside. The nurse should provide immediate emotional support and then involve the parents in the discussion when they return.

Choice A Reason:

We will place my baby on her back when sleeping. This is a recommended practice to reduce the risk of SIDS. Placing infants on their backs to sleep is one of the most effective measures to prevent SIDS, as it helps keep the airway clear and reduces the risk of suffocation.

Choice B Reason:

We will give my baby a pacifier during naps and at bedtime. This is also a recommended practice to reduce the risk of SIDS. Using a pacifier during sleep has been associated with a lower risk of SIDS, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood. It is believed that pacifiers may help keep the airway open and promote safer sleep patterns.

Choice C Reason:

We will remove blankets and toys from the crib. This is another recommended practice to reduce the risk of SIDS. Keeping the crib free of soft bedding, pillows, and toys helps prevent suffocation and creates a safer sleep environment for the infant.

Choice D Reason:

Our baby will sleep in our bed because I am breastfeeding. This statement indicates the need for additional teaching. Bed-sharing is not recommended as it increases the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that infants should sleep in the same room as their parents, but on a separate sleep surface, such as a crib or bassinet, to reduce the risk of SIDS while still facilitating breastfeeding.