A nurse is planning to collect data on the pain level of a 3-year-old child. Which of the following pain rating scales should the nurse plan to use?

Choice A reason:

Insomnia may not be an expected finding in a school-age child with a newly diagnosed brain tumor. While sleep disturbances can occur due to various medical conditions, insomnia is not a common presenting symptom of brain tumors in this age group. Thus, it is less likely to be the correct answer.

Choice B reason:

A negative Babinski sign would actually be a normal finding in a school-age child. The Babinski sign is a neurological test that becomes positive in certain conditions, but a negative result is expected in a healthy child. Therefore, this finding is not indicative of a brain tumor and is not the correct choice.

Choice C reason:

Increased appetite is also an unlikely finding in a child with a newly diagnosed brain tumor. Brain tumors can lead to various neurological symptoms, but an increased appetite is not a characteristic feature. Thus, this choice is less likely to be correct.

Choice D reason:

Incoordination is a more expected finding in a school-age child with a newly diagnosed brain tumor. Brain tumors can affect motor skills and coordination due to their location and impact on the brain's functions. Children may experience difficulties with balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. Therefore, this choice is the most likely correct answer.

Adolescents tend to believe their own actions might have caused their terminal illness. Choice A reason:

This statement reflects a common developmental focus for adolescents, who are often navigating issues related to identity and self-image. While they are aware of their illness, many may prioritize concerns about how they look and how they are perceived by others. This can be a significant aspect of their experience during a terminal illness.

Choice B reason:

Many adolescents imagine death as a type of monster. Although this statement acknowledges a common perception of death among some adolescents, it is not the best choice for reinforcing teaching about the perception of death in the context of a terminal illness. The focus should be on more concrete and realistic aspects of death and its implications.

Choice C reason:

This statement does reflect a valid concern but may not be as prevalent as the concern with appearance in this age group. Many adolescents, especially in a terminal situation, may focus on more immediate concerns, such as how they are perceived.

Choice D reason:

Many adolescents don't understand that death is permanent. While this statement may be true for some adolescents who are still developing a full comprehension of death, it is not the most suitable choice for this scenario. In the context of a terminal illness, it is essential to acknowledge that the adolescent likely has a clear understanding of the finality of death.