A 2-year-old child will undergo a cardiac catheterization tomorrow to evaluate his ventricular septal defect. Based on his developmental stage, the nurse:

Question

Options

• AUses pictures to explain the procedure to the child and his parents that evening
• BExplains the procedure using simple words and sentences just before the preoperative sedation
• CAsks the parents to explain the procedure to the child after she explains it to them
• DAsks the parents to leave the room while the preoperative medication and instructions are given

• A
  2% (1)
• B
  76% (38)
• C
  6% (3)
• D
  16% (8)

Explanation

(A) A toddler is not capable of conceptualizing about the inside of his body and is concerned about body intactness; therefore, diagrams would not be useful. Also, the previous evening is too far from the procedure for the toddler to remember the instructions. (B) A simple explanation the morning of the procedure is the best developmental strategy to use, because it focuses on the toddler's need for parental support, body intactness, and short attention (C) A relationship between the nurse and the child needs to develop. Also, misinformation may be given to the child if the parents explain the procedure to the child. (D) The parents are the child's support system and need to be there to strengthen the child.

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