A nurse is counseling a client for the management of anxiety. The client is consistently late for appointments and ignores household chores. The client states, "I'm just too stressed. I need someone to take care of me." The nurse identifies this behavior as an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?

A. Separates easily from primary caregiver for short periods of time: This is the correct choice. Toddlers typically begin to demonstrate increased independence and are able to separate from their primary caregiver for short periods of time without significant distress. This developmental task reflects the toddler's growing sense of autonomy and confidence in exploring their environment.

B. Explains the difference between right and wrong: While toddlers may begin to understand simple rules and expectations, they are not yet capable of explaining the difference between right and wrong in a comprehensive or abstract manner. Moral development occurs gradually over time and is influenced by various factors, including socialization and parental guidance.

C. Cooperates in doing simple chores: Toddlers may begin to imitate or participate in simple household tasks or routines, but their level of cooperation is typically limited and may vary depending on individual temperament and developmental readiness. While involvement in chores can promote a sense of responsibility and independence, toddlers are still in the early stages of learning basic self-care skills and may require supervision and assistance.

D. Prints letters and numbers: The ability to print letters and numbers typically emerges during the preschool years, around ages 3 to 5, as part of the development of fine motor skills and early literacy. Toddlers are not developmentally ready to master the precision and coordination required for printing letters and numbers. Their focus during the toddler stage is primarily on gross motor skills, sensory exploration, and language development.

A. Barking cough: A barking cough is a characteristic symptom of acute laryngotracheobronchitis (croup), indicating inflammation of the upper airway. While it may improve with treatment, it is not necessarily an indication that the treatment has been effective on its own.

B. Decreased stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound heard during inspiration and indicates upper airway obstruction. In acute laryngotracheobronchitis, stridor is a prominent symptom. Decreased stridor suggests that the airway obstruction is resolving, which indicates that the treatment has been effective.

C. Decreased temperature: While fever may be present in some cases of acute laryngotracheobronchitis, it is not a defining characteristic. A decreased temperature alone does not necessarily indicate that the treatment has been effective in managing the condition.

D. Improved hydration: Hydration is important in managing any illness, including acute laryngotracheobronchitis, but improved hydration alone does not indicate that the treatment has been effective in resolving the condition. It may be an important aspect of supportive care but does not directly reflect the resolution of airway obstruction.