A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has pelvic inflammatory disease as a consequence of a sexually transmitted infection and will need intravenous antibiotic therapy. The client tells the nurse, "My parents think I am a virgin. I don't think I can tell them I have this kind of an infection." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A: Growth spurt is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The growth spurt is a period of rapid increase in height and weight that usually occurs between 10 and 14 years of age in girls. It is influenced by various factors such as genetics, nutrition, and hormones. Growth spurt usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 6 to 12 months.

Choice B: Evidence of pubic hair is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. Evidence of pubic hair is the appearance of coarse, curly, and pigmented hair on the pubic area and around the genitals. It usually occurs between 8 and 13 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of androgens (male hormones) by the adrenal glands and ovaries. Evidence of pubic hair usually follows the development of breast buds by about 3 to 6 months.

Choice C: Onset of menses is not the correct answer because it is not the first event that occurs in female puberty. The onset of menses is the beginning of menstrual cycles, which are regular changes in the female reproductive system that prepare the body for pregnancy. It usually occurs between 10 and 15 years of age in girls. It is caused by the maturation of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries, and uterus, which regulate the levels of estrogen and progesterone (female hormones). The onset of menses usually follows the development of breast buds and pubic hair by about 2 to 3 years.

Choice D: Development of breast buds is the correct answer because it is the first event that occurs in female puberty. Development of breast buds is the enlargement and elevation of the nipples and areolas (dark circles around the nipples), which indicate the beginning of breast growth. It usually occurs between 8 and 12 years of age in girls. It is caused by the increased production of estrogen (female hormone) by the ovaries, which stimulates the growth of ducts (tubes) and lobules (glands) in the breast tissue. The development of breast buds is also called thelarche or breast stage 2.

Choice A: "Don't worry, I will be with you during the exam." This response is not appropriate because it does not address the client's feelings or concerns. It also may sound dismissive or patronizing to the client, who may have valid reasons to be nervous.

Choice B: "What part of the exam makes you most nervous?" This response is appropriate because it shows empathy and interest in the client's perspective. It also invites the client to express her fears or questions and allows the nurse to provide information and reassurance.

Choice C: "All you need to do is relax." This response is not appropriate because it does not acknowledge the client's feelings or concerns. It also may sound unrealistic or insensitive to the client, who may find it hard to relax in a stressful situation.

Choice D: "A pelvic exam is required if you want birth control pills." This response is not appropriate because it does not address the client's feelings or concerns. It also may sound coercive or threatening to the client, who may feel pressured or intimidated by the requirement.