A nurse is teaching a school-age child and their parents about managing diabetes mellitus during illness. The nurse should determine that the teaching has been effective when the parents indicate they will provide which of the following when the child is ill?

A. The infant does not exhibit fear of strangers.

The infant does not exhibit fear of strangers is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider, as this is a normal social behavior for a 6-month-old infant. Infants usually develop stranger anxiety between 8 and 12 months of age, when they become more aware of their surroundings and attachment figures.

B. The infant does not roll over from his abdomen to his back.

By 6 months of age, most infants can roll over in both directions— from their abdomen to their back and vice versa. The inability to roll over from abdomen to back may indicate a delay in gross motor skills development. This finding should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation.

C. The infant does not pick up objects from the floor with his fingers.

By 6 months of age, infants typically begin to develop the ability to grasp and pick up objects using their fingers. This milestone is part of fine motor skills development. The inability to pick up objects from the floor with fingers may indicate a delay in fine motor skills and should be reported to the provider for further assessment.

D. The infant does not sit on the floor unsupported.

By 6 months of age, infants typically begin to develop the ability to sit unsupported for short periods. While some variability exists in when infants achieve this milestone, the inability to sit unsupported at 6 months may indicate a delay in gross motor skills development. This finding should be reported to the provider for further evaluation.

A. Preschoolers believe their illness is punishment for their misbehavior:This statement is true. Preschool-aged children often have a limited understanding of illness and may associate it with punishment. They might think that their illness is a consequence of something they did wrong. As a nurse, it’s essential to address these misconceptions and provide age-appropriate explanations to help them understand their condition better.

B. Preschoolers are interested in what happens to the body after death: Preschoolers may have curiosity about death and what happens afterward, but their understanding is typically limited. They may ask simple questions about death and may need age-appropriate explanations about the concept. Providing information in a sensitive and honest manner can help address their curiosity and alleviate fears.

C. Adolescents worry more about death than the physical changes that can occur as a result of the illness: Adolescents facing terminal illness may have complex emotions and concerns about both death and the physical changes associated with their illness. It's important to acknowledge and address both aspects of their experience, providing opportunities for adolescents to express their feelings and concerns in a supportive environment.

D. Toddlers personify death as being a type of monster: Toddlers often have limited understanding of death and may personify it in different ways, including as a monster or some other abstract concept. It's essential for guardians to provide comfort and reassurance to toddlers who may experience fear or confusion about death. Providing simple and concrete explanations about death, tailored to their developmental level, can help alleviate anxiety.