The nurse is talking with the caregiver of a 13-year-old diagnosed with scoliosis.
The child has come to the clinic to be fitted with a brace to begin her treatment.
The child appears upset and angry and states, "I hate this brace; I hate it already." In an effort to support this child, which statement would be the most appropriate for the nurse to make to this child's caregiver?
"If you can afford it, let your daughter choose an article or two of clothing that she can wear with the brace that will help her feel that she looks good.".
"Remind your child that her spine needs to be corrected in order to keep her whole musculoskeletal system healthy for a long, long time.".
"Children her age often withdraw during stressful times: let her have some time alone to think about the situation and to get used to the brace.".
"Take your daughter to an oncology floor for a few minutes so she can see children who are much sicker than she is.".
The Correct Answer is A
Allowing the child to choose an article or two of clothing that she can wear with the brace can help her feel more confident and in control of her appearance.
This can help her feel better about wearing the brace and improve her overall attitude toward the treatment.

Choice B is not the best answer because it focuses on the long-term benefits of the treatment without addressing the child’s immediate concerns and emotions.
Choice C is not the best answer because it suggests that the child should be left alone to deal with her emotions, which may not be helpful in this situation.
Choice D is not the best answer because it suggests comparing the child’s situation to others who are sicker, which may not be helpful or appropriate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A complete fracture is when the bone breaks into two or more separate pieces.
This is in contrast to an incomplete fracture, where the bone is only partially broken.
A spiral fracture is a type of complete fracture that occurs when a long bone is twisted with force.
A greenstick fracture is a type of incomplete fracture that occurs when a bone bends and cracks but does not break completely.

Choice A, Spiral, is incorrect because it refers to a specific type of complete fracture that occurs when a long bone is twisted with force.
Choice B, Incomplete, is incorrect because it refers to a type of fracture where the bone is only partially broken.
Choice D, Greenstick, is incorrect because it refers to a specific type of incomplete fracture that occurs when a bone bends and cracks but does not break completely.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Placing traction weights so they touch the head of the bed disrupts the effectiveness of the traction system. Skeletal traction relies on a continuous pulling force to maintain proper alignment of the fractured femur. If the weights are resting on any surface, the force is interrupted, which can lead to complications such as malunion or delayed healing. The weights must hang freely at all times to ensure therapeutic benefit.
Choice B reason:
Isometric exercises are beneficial for maintaining muscle tone and promoting circulation during immobilization. However, while this is a supportive intervention, it is not the most critical or immediate nursing action in the context of skeletal traction. Encouraging exercises every 8 hours is appropriate, but it does not directly address the most urgent or discomfort-related aspect of care.
Choice C reason:
Pin care is a routine but potentially painful procedure associated with skeletal traction. Administering pain medication beforehand is a priority nursing action because it ensures client comfort, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation during the procedure. This intervention reflects both compassionate care and adherence to best practices in pain management and infection prevention.
Choice D reason:
Repositioning a client in skeletal traction must be done with extreme caution to avoid disrupting the traction setup. Assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours may inadvertently alter the alignment or tension of the traction apparatus. While pressure injury prevention is important, repositioning must be coordinated carefully and is not the most appropriate standalone action in this context.
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