A nurse is caring for an 18-month-old toddler who has been hospitalized for 10 days.
After the toddler’s mother leaves the room, the nurse observes the toddler sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb.
When the nurse approaches the crib, the toddler turns away from the nurse.
The nurse should understand that these behaviors indicate which of the following developmental reactions?

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

Encouraging the parents to rock the infant provides comfort and emotional support, which is crucial for the infant’s recovery. Rocking can also help soothe the infant and promote bonding between the parents and the child.

Choice B rationale

Administering ibuprofen as needed for pain is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age due to the risk of adverse effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.

Choice C rationale

Positioning the infant on her abdomen is contraindicated after cleft lip repair surgery as it can put pressure on the surgical site, potentially causing damage and increasing the risk of infection.

Choice D rationale

Offering the infant a pacifier is not advisable as sucking can put strain on the surgical site, potentially leading to complications and delaying the healing process.

A. Trust vs. mistrust: This stage occurs from birth to 18 months. Infants learn to trust their caregivers to meet their needs. If caregivers are consistent and reliable, infants develop a sense of trust.
B. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt: This stage occurs from 18 months to 3 years. Toddlers learn to do things independently. Success leads to autonomy, while failure results in feelings of shame and doubt.
C. Initiative vs. guilt: This stage occurs from 3 to 5 years. Children begin to assert control and power over their environment. Success leads to a sense of initiative, while failure results in guilt.
D. Industry vs. inferiority: This stage occurs from 6 to 11 years. Children learn to cope with new social and academic demands. Success leads to a sense of competence, while failure results in feelings of inferiority.

E. Identity vs. role confusion: This stage occurs from 12 to 18 years. Adolescents explore their independence and develop a sense of self. Success leads to a strong identity, while failure results in role confusion.