A nurse is caring for an infant who has gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent regurgitation? (Select all that apply.)

A. "Gently put the tubes back into the child's ears": This is not the correct response. Tympanoplasty tubes are not meant to be reinserted if they fall out. Attempting to reinsert them without proper medical training could cause injury or damage to the child's ears. Therefore, this response should be avoided.

B. "Bring the child to the emergency department immediately": While it's important for the parent to seek medical attention if the tubes fall out, it may not always necessitate a visit to the emergency department, especially if the child is not experiencing any other symptoms. This response might cause unnecessary panic for the parent and may not be the most appropriate course of action.

C. "Notify the provider that the tubes have fallen out": This is the correct response. If the tympanoplasty tubes fall out, the parent should notify the healthcare provider who performed the procedure. The provider can then assess the situation and determine the next steps, which may include scheduling a follow-up appointment to evaluate the child's ears.

D. "The tubes are sutured in place and must be surgically removed": This is incorrect. Tympanoplasty tubes are not sutured in place; they are typically designed to fall out on their own after a certain period of time. Additionally, removal of tympanoplasty tubes usually does not require another surgical procedure.

A. Preschoolers believe their illness is punishment for their misbehavior:This statement is true. Preschool-aged children often have a limited understanding of illness and may associate it with punishment. They might think that their illness is a consequence of something they did wrong. As a nurse, it’s essential to address these misconceptions and provide age-appropriate explanations to help them understand their condition better.

B. Preschoolers are interested in what happens to the body after death: Preschoolers may have curiosity about death and what happens afterward, but their understanding is typically limited. They may ask simple questions about death and may need age-appropriate explanations about the concept. Providing information in a sensitive and honest manner can help address their curiosity and alleviate fears.

C. Adolescents worry more about death than the physical changes that can occur as a result of the illness: Adolescents facing terminal illness may have complex emotions and concerns about both death and the physical changes associated with their illness. It's important to acknowledge and address both aspects of their experience, providing opportunities for adolescents to express their feelings and concerns in a supportive environment.

D. Toddlers personify death as being a type of monster: Toddlers often have limited understanding of death and may personify it in different ways, including as a monster or some other abstract concept. It's essential for guardians to provide comfort and reassurance to toddlers who may experience fear or confusion about death. Providing simple and concrete explanations about death, tailored to their developmental level, can help alleviate anxiety.