The nurse is caring for a school-age child with varicella. What should the nurse observe about the rash that is associated with this infection?

A. Mother sets aside afternoon time for the toddler while the baby naps.

Setting aside dedicated time for the older sibling when the newborn is napping demonstrates a proactive approach to ensuring the older child receives attention and feels valued, reducing the likelihood of resentment or rivalry.

B. Mother sleeps while newborn is sleeping:

While rest is important for the mother, this doesn't directly address the dynamics of sibling rivalry. It's essential to focus on positive interactions and attention for the toddler when the newborn is not requiring immediate care.

C. Mother asks if the toddler likes the new baby:

While communication is important, simply asking if the toddler likes the new baby may not be sufficient to prevent sibling rivalry. Actions and dedicated time are often more impactful.

D. Mother suggests family not bring gifts to the toddler until behavior changes:

Delaying gifts based on behavior may create an association between gifts and behavior change, which might not be the most effective approach. Positive reinforcement and attention are often more beneficial in preventing rivalry.

A. Calmly tell the child to stop:

While remaining calm is important, simply telling the child to stop might not be effective during a tantrum. Toddlers experiencing a meltdown might not respond immediately to verbal commands.

B. Distract the child by buying a toy:

Using material objects to distract a child during a tantrum might reinforce the behavior by rewarding it with something desired. It's also not always feasible to buy a toy instantly.

C. Appear to ignore them:

This strategy might involve not engaging directly with the tantrum, which could sometimes help to de-escalate the situation. However, it's crucial to ensure the child is in a safe environment and to offer support if necessary.

D. Place the child in time-out for 3 min:

Time-out can be a useful method for calming down a child. However, its effectiveness depends on the child's age, temperament, and the consistency of applying this method. Time-out might not be suitable for all children, especially for a 2-year-old who might not fully understand the concept.