A nurse is providing teaching to a school-age child who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following statements by the child indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

Evaluating the infant’s pain level using the FACES Scale is not appropriate for infants. The FACES Scale is typically used for children aged 3 years and older.

Choice B rationale:

Offering the infant small, frequent feedings of thickened liquids is not recommended in this scenario. The infant is on NPO (nothing by mouth) status due to the forceful vomiting and risk of aspiration.

Choice C rationale:

Measuring the infant’s head circumference is important to assess for any signs of increased intracranial pressure or hydrocephalus, which can be associated with vomiting.

Choice D rationale:

Implementing contact precautions is not necessary unless there is a known or suspected infectious cause for the vomiting.

Choice E rationale:

Weighing the infant is crucial to monitor for any significant weight loss, which can indicate dehydration or other underlying issues.

Choice F rationale:

Planning to administer a plain water enema to the infant is not appropriate in this scenario. The primary concern is the forceful vomiting, and an enema would not address this issue.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale

A storybook about a child who has diabetes can be helpful in educating the child about their condition and normalizing their experience. However, it may not be as effective in addressing the immediate distress caused by an insulin injection. Therapeutic play that directly involves the injection experience can be more beneficial in helping the child cope with their fear and anxiety.

Choice B rationale

A period of play in the playroom can provide a distraction and help the child relax. However, it does not specifically address the child’s distress related to the insulin injection. Therapeutic play that involves role-playing the injection process can be more effective in helping the child understand and cope with the procedure.

Choice C rationale

A video game can serve as a distraction and help the child relax. However, it does not directly address the child’s fear and anxiety related to the insulin injection. Therapeutic play that involves role-playing the injection process can be more effective in helping the child understand and cope with the procedure.

Choice D rationale

Using a needleless syringe and a doll allows the child to engage in therapeutic play that simulates the experience of receiving an insulin injection. This type of play helps the child understand the procedure, reduces fear and anxiety, and provides a sense of control over the situation. It is a direct and effective way to help the child cope with the distress caused by the injection.