A nurse is assessing a toddler at a well-child visit. At what point in the physical examination should the nurse examine the child's tympanic membrane?

These behaviors suggest that the child is experiencing distress or discomfort in response to the separation from the mother and the hospital environment.

Anxiety reactions are common in toddlers who are hospitalized or experience separation from their primary caregivers. It is a normal response to unfamiliar and potentially stressful situations. Toddlers at this age are still developing a sense of security and trust in their environment, and being in the hospital can disrupt their routine and comfort.

It is important for the nurse to provide a calm and supportive environment for the toddler, offering reassurance and comfort. The nurse can engage in activities that promote a sense of security and provide opportunities for the toddler to express their emotions and fears, such as through play or comforting rituals.

A.Toddlers experience slowed growth compared to infancy, leading to a natural decrease in appetite (physiologic anorexia). Instead of increasing caloric intake, parents should be encouraged to offer nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent meals and avoid pressuring the child to eat.

B.Tantrums are common in toddlers as they begin to assert independence but struggle with emotional regulation. Parents should use strategies such as remaining calm, setting clear limits, offering choices when appropriate, and using positive reinforcement to help manage tantrums effectively.

C.Establishing trust is a key developmental task of infancy (Erikson’s trust vs. mistrust stage). In toddlerhood (autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage), the focus is on developing independence, so guidance should focus on setting boundaries, providing choices, and allowing safe exploration rather than trust-building alone.

D.Cooperative play is typically aimed at older preschoolers and not toddlers, who are still developing social skills and tend to engage in parallel play rather than cooperative play.

E.Early dental hygiene is crucial for preventing cavities and establishing good oral health habits. Parents should begin brushing their toddler's teeth with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste and schedule the first dental visit by 12 months of age or within 6 months of the first tooth eruption.