The school nurse has been asked to begin teaching sex education in the 5th grade. Which statement should be the foundation for the information the nurse should present?

The correct answer is choice D. It is a belief common at this age.

Choice A rationale:

The statement does not suggest a failed attempt to develop a conscience. The scenario described is more related to the cognitive development of an 8-year-old child. Children at this age often have magical thinking and may interpret events, such as illness, as punishments for perceived wrongdoing. This is a normal aspect of their cognitive development rather than a reflection of a failed attempt to develop a conscience.

Choice B rationale:

While beliefs about punishment and consequences are present in many religions, the scenario is not about a general religious belief but rather a specific belief held by the individual child. This belief is reflective of the child's cognitive understanding and not necessarily a religious teaching common to most religions.

Choice C rationale:

The belief is not necessarily suggestive of excessive family pressure. While family dynamics can influence a child's beliefs and behaviors, the scenario describes a typical cognitive developmental stage where children are still learning to differentiate between reality and their own thoughts, leading to magical thinking and unique interpretations.

Choice D rationale:

The belief is indeed common at this age. During middle childhood, children often exhibit concrete operational thinking, which includes a tendency to interpret events in a self-centered and concrete manner. Beliefs like the one described in the scenario, where the child connects her illness to perceived bad behavior and potential consequences, are characteristic of this developmental stage.

The correct answer is choice C: "Salt restriction."

Choice A rationale:

The requirement of a high protein diet is not typically indicated for a child with nephrosis. Nephrosis, a condition characterized by excessive protein in the urine, indicates a need to reduce protein intake to alleviate kidney stress and proteinuria.

Choice B rationale:

A low fat diet is not a specific requirement for a child with nephrosis. The focus in nephrosis is primarily on protein and salt intake rather than fat content.

Choice C rationale:

Salt restriction is the correct requirement for a child with nephrosis. Nephrosis often leads to fluid retention and edema due to impaired kidney function. Restricting salt intake helps to reduce fluid retention and manage blood pressure.

Choice D rationale:

A high carbohydrate diet is not commonly prescribed for a child with nephrosis. While carbohydrates are a source of energy, they are not a primary consideration in managing nephrosis. The emphasis is more on protein and salt intake.