A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has pneumonia.

For each potential nursing action, click to specify if the potential action is anticipated or contraindicated for the client.

A) Believes the death is punishment for bad behavior: Preschoolers, typically ages 3 to 5, often engage in magical thinking and may believe that death is a result of their own actions or bad behavior. They may see death as a punishment for something they did wrong, as they have difficulty understanding the permanence and inevitability of death. This egocentric thinking is typical for their developmental stage.

B) Recognizes the parent will never wake up: Preschoolers may not yet fully comprehend the permanence of death. They may think the deceased parent will eventually wake up or return. This belief reflects their limited understanding of death, which they may view as reversible or temporary, especially if they haven't encountered death before.

C) Understands that everyone dies eventually: Preschoolers do not generally have the cognitive ability to grasp the concept that everyone dies eventually. This understanding develops later, typically during the concrete operational stage of development (around age 7 or 8), when children begin to understand death as permanent and universal.

D) Expresses curiosity about the funeral service: While some preschoolers may express curiosity about events like a funeral, it is more likely that their curiosity would be centered on simple, tangible aspects of death (such as asking questions about where the person went or what happens to their body) rather than the ceremony itself. At this stage, children may not fully understand the cultural or symbolic meanings of a funeral service.

A) Drain the tub water before the client gets out: Draining the water before the client gets out of the tub is the safest option. This helps prevent the risk of slipping or falling, as the water level will lower once the client begins to stand. Additionally, it ensures that the client can safely exit the tub without the danger of being unbalanced or disoriented by the water.

B) Check on the client every 10 min during the bath: While monitoring the client during the bath is important, checking every 10 minutes may not be frequent enough to ensure their safety, especially for clients who have mobility or cognitive issues. Ideally, the nurse should stay with or observe the client more closely or provide assistance if needed. Continuous supervision is preferred, particularly if the client is at risk for falls or other complications.

C) Add bath oil to the water after the client gets into the tub: Bath oils can create a slippery surface, which could increase the risk of falls or accidents. It's generally better to avoid adding oils to the bath water, as they can make the tub and the client’s skin slick, posing safety hazards. If oil is necessary for skin care, it should be applied to the skin after the bath, not in the water.

D) Allow the client to remain in the bath for 30 min: While the client may enjoy a bath, staying in the tub for too long can lead to skin irritation, dehydration, or overheating, especially for older adults or clients with medical conditions. The client should not stay in the water for prolonged periods. A typical recommendation would be to allow the bath to last about 10-20 minutes, depending on the client’s condition and safety.