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?

The fracture does not cross through the bone. Choice A reason:

The statement in Choice A is incorrect because it describes a greenstick fracture as the bone bending and causing a microscopic fracture line. This is not true for a greenstick fracture. A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side while remaining intact on the other side. The rationale for this is that pediatric bones are more flexible than adult bones, and when a force is applied, they tend to bend rather than completely break.

Choice B reason:

Choice B is the correct answer. A greenstick fracture does not cross through the bone; it involves only one side of the bone being broken while the other side remains intact. This type of fracture is common in children because their bones are still developing and contain more collagen, making them more flexible and prone to bending rather than breaking completely.

Choice C reason:

The statement in Choice C is incorrect because it describes a different type of fracture. A compressed fracture involves the bone being crushed or shortened, leading to a raised area at the fracture site. This is not characteristic of a greenstick fracture, which involves bending and partial breakage rather than compression.

Choice D reason:

The statement in Choice D is incorrect because it describes a complete fracture that completely divides the bone into two separate pieces. A greenstick fracture, as explained earlier, is an incomplete fracture and does not completely divide the bone.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should inform the adolescent of their right to refuse treatment because respecting the patient's autonomy and right to make their own decisions about their healthcare is essential. This is especially true for an adolescent who is living on their own, as they have the legal capacity to make their medical decisions independently.

Choice B reason:

This statement is incorrect because, in most jurisdictions, adolescents who live on their own are considered emancipated minors, meaning they have the legal right to make their medical decisions without involving a parent or guardian. Requiring a parent or guardian's consent would not be applicable in this situation.

Choice C reason:

This statement is incorrect and irrelevant to the situation. Marriage status does not determine an individual's ability to make their own health care decisions. Regardless of marital status, an adolescent living on their own has the right to make their medical choices.

Choice D reason:

This is the correct choice. The nurse should emphasize the adolescent's right to refuse treatment if they wish to do so. It is crucial to respect their autonomy and ensure that they are fully informed about the potential consequences of their decision. However, the nurse should also provide relevant information about the treatment's benefits and risks to help the patient make an informed decision.