A nurse is providing teaching to a parent of a preschooler who has eczema.

Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is d. Modify the environment.

Rationale for each choice:

Choice a. Improve the client's communication skills.

• Statement:While communication is important,it is not the priority for a child with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
• Rationale:Hemiplegic cerebral palsy primarily affects motor skills,not communication abilities.While some children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy may have speech difficulties,it is not the most pressing concern in this case.Addressing environmental barriers to promote mobility and independence takes precedence.

Choice b. Provide respite services for the parents.

• Statement:Respite services can provide valuable support for parents,but they are not the priority in this case.
• Rationale:The focus of the care plan should be on the child's immediate needs and safety.Modifying the environment to enhance the child's functional abilities is crucial for their development and well-being.

Choice c. Foster self-care activities.

• Statement:Encouraging self-care is essential,but it requires a supportive environment.
• Rationale:Before promoting self-care activities,the nurse must ensure the child has the necessary accommodations and modifications in place to facilitate independence.

Choice d. Modify the environment.

• Statement:This is the priority goal for a child with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
• Rationale:Modifying the home environment can significantly improve the child's mobility,safety,and ability to participate in daily activities.Examples of modifications include:
  • Installing grab bars in the bathroom
  • Widening doorways
  • Removing tripping hazards
  • Providing adaptive equipment such as special chairs or utensils
  • Ensuring adequatelighting

The correct answer ischoice C.

Choice A rationale:

A lead level of 10 mcg/dL is above the CDC’s reference value of 3.5 mcg/dL and would require more immediate follow-up and intervention, not just rescreening in one year.

Choice B rationale:

A lead level of 18 mcg/dL is significantly elevated and would necessitate immediate medical intervention and frequent monitoring, rather than waiting a year for rescreening.

Choice C rationale:

A lead level of 4 mcg/dL is slightly above the CDC’s reference value of 3.5 mcg/dL.While it is concerning, it may be appropriate to rescreen in one year if no other risk factors are present.

Choice D rationale:

A lead level of 44 mcg/dL is dangerously high and requires urgent medical treatment and frequent follow-up, not just rescreening in one year.