The nurse is assessing a 13-year-old girl. Which event would the nurse expect to have occurred first?

Choice A: Growth spurt is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The growth spurt is a period of rapid increase in height and weight that usually occurs between 10 and 14 years of age in girls. It is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, and hormones. Growth spurt usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 6 to 12 months.

Choice B: Evidence of pubic hair is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. Evidence of pubic hair is the appearance of coarse, curly, and pigmented hair on the pubic area and around the genitals. It usually occurs between 8 and 13 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of androgens (male hormones) by the adrenal glands and ovaries. Evidence of pubic hair usually follows the development of breast buds by about 3 to 6 months.

Choice C: Onset of menses is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The onset of menses is the beginning of menstrual cycles, which are regular changes in the female reproductive system that prepare the body for pregnancy. It usually occurs between 10 and 15 years of age in girls. It is caused by the maturation of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries, and uterus, which regulate the levels of estrogen and progesterone (female hormones). The onset of menses usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 2 to 3 years.

Choice D: Development of breast buds is the correct answer because it is the first event that occurs in female puberty. Development of breast buds is the enlargement and elevation of the nipples and areolas (dark circles around the nipples), which indicate the beginning of breast growth. It usually occurs between 8 and 12 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of estrogen (female hormone) by the ovaries, which stimulates the growth of ducts (tubes) and lobules (glands) in the breast tissue. The development of breast buds is also called thelarche or breast stage 2.

Choice A: "A provider can help you with that after a physical examination." This response is appropriate and respectful because it acknowledges the client's right to choose a contraceptive method that suits her needs and preferences. It also encourages the client to seek professional advice and care from a provider who can assess her health status, medical history, and risk factors, and offer her a range of options and information.

Choice B: "You are so young. Are you ready for the responsibilities of a sexual relationship?" This response is inappropriate and judgmental because it implies that the client is too immature or irresponsible to have a sexual relationship. It also discourages the client from seeking help or information from the nurse and may make her feel ashamed or guilty about her sexuality.

Choice C: "Because of your age, I think that a barrier method would be the best choice." This response is inappropriate and paternalistic because it assumes that the nurse knows what is best for the client without considering her individual situation or preferences. It also limits the client's options and may not address her specific needs or concerns.

Choice D: "Before I can help you, I need to know more about your sexual activity." This response is inappropriate and intrusive because it asks for personal and sensitive information that may not be relevant or necessary for choosing a contraceptive method. It also violates the client's privacy and may make her feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.