A nurse is caring for a toddler who has acute laryngotracheobonchitis after a repair of an intussusception. Which of the indicates that the treatment has been effective?

A. 6 years:

By the age of 6, children typically have developed more advanced motor skills and coordination. Descending stairs by placing both feet on each step and holding onto the railing may be considered overly cautious for a 6-year-old.

B. 5 years:

At the age of 5, children may still be refining their motor skills, but they are usually capable of descending stairs using a more fluid motion, such as placing one foot on each step. Holding onto the railing for support is common but may not be as necessary as in younger children.

C. 4 years:

This is the correct answer. At the age of 4, children often descend stairs by placing both feet on each step and holding onto the railing for support. This method allows for increased stability and safety as they continue to develop balance and coordination.

D. 3 years:

While some children may start to learn how to descend stairs independently by the age of 3, they are more likely to use a one-foot-per-step method or require close supervision. Placing both feet on each step and holding onto the railing for support is less common at this age.

Therefore, option C is the most appropriate age for the described behavior, as it aligns with typical developmental milestones for stair-descending skills in children.

A. Imaginary playmates:

Toddlers typically do not engage in activities involving imaginary playmates. This behavior is more common in preschool-aged children.

B. Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt:

Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt occurs during the preschool years, typically around ages 3 to 5. It involves children developing a sense of initiative to take on new tasks and challenges, balanced with feelings of guilt if they are overly criticized or restricted.

C. Negative behaviors characterized by the need for autonomy:

This is the correct answer. Toddlers are in Erikson's stage of autonomy versus shame and doubt. During this stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 1 and 3, toddlers strive to gain independence and autonomy. They may exhibit negative behaviors, such as temper tantrums or defiance, as they assert their independence and explore their environment.

D. Demonstrations of sexual curiosity:

Demonstrations of sexual curiosity typically emerge later in childhood, around the preschool years or later. Toddlers are not typically focused on sexual curiosity during this stage of development.