Question

A 10-year-old child is in the hospital for the first time. The nurse has provided support and teaching to help the family and child adjust and to reduce their anxiety related to the child's hospitalization. Which of the following would the nurse view as unexpected?

1) The child discusses procedures and activities without evidence of anxiety.
2) The child expresses fear and reluctance to participate in activities.
3) The child asks questions about the hospital environment.
4) The child shows signs of anxiety and restlessness.

Answer 1

When a 10-year-old child is in the hospital for the first time, it is normal for them to exhibit signs of anxiety and restlessness. However, if the child is discussing procedures and activities without evidence of anxiety, this would be unexpected and may indicate a need for further assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a 10-year-old child is in the hospital for the first time, it is normal for them to exhibit signs of anxiety and restlessness. This could include expressing fear and reluctance to participate in activities and asking questions about the hospital environment. However, if the child is discussing procedures and activities without evidence of anxiety, this would be unexpected and may indicate a need for further assessment. It is important for the nurse to provide support and reassurance to the child and their family to help them adjust to the hospitalization.