A child with diabetes reports that he is feeling a little shaky. Further assessment reveals that the child is coherent but with some slight tremors and sweating. A fingerstick blood glucose level is 70 mg/dL. What would the nurse do next?

Rationale:

A. The child withdraws and attempts to hide because they think the pain is a form of punishment: This is more typical of toddlers who have limited understanding and may associate pain with punishment, rather than preschoolers who have a better grasp of cause and effect.

B. The child denies being scared about pain in an attempt to seem brave, and withdraws to a game on mom's phone: While distraction techniques are effective, preschoolers are more likely to show visible signs of distress rather than denying fear completely, as their emotional expression is more open.

C. The child makes facial expressions such as brow contracting and chin quivering in anticipation of the pain: Preschool-aged children often express fear and anxiety about painful procedures through facial cues and body language, showing clear anticipation and emotional response.

D. The child kicks, hits and cries due to lack of control over the situation: This aggressive and oppositional behavior is more characteristic of toddlers or children with less developed coping skills, rather than preschoolers who generally have more emotional regulation.

Rationale:

A. "I will give him his ADHD medication with his meals": Stimulant medications for ADHD can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset, and giving them with food may help minimize this side effect.

B. "I will take my child to the physician every three months for a weight and height check.": Regular monitoring of growth is essential because stimulant medications can decrease appetite and potentially slow growth. A three-month interval is an appropriate follow-up.

C. "I will let him do his homework while he is watching his favorite television show.": Children with ADHD are easily distracted, and doing homework while watching television can make it harder to focus and complete tasks. A quiet, structured environment without competing stimuli supports better concentration and academic performance.

D. "I will stick to the same routine each day after school.": Consistent daily routines help children with ADHD feel secure and maintain focus. Predictable schedules reduce anxiety and behavioral outbursts, while also helping the child manage transitions more effectively.