A nurse is collecting data from an infant who has otitis media.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as manifestations of pain in an infant? (Select all that apply)

Choice A rationale

This response is inappropriate and unprofessional. It makes an assumption about the child’s behavior at home without any evidence. It also could make the parents feel blamed or judged, which is not conducive to a supportive healthcare environment.

Choice B rationale

While it’s important for the nurse to communicate with the provider about any changes in the child’s health status, this response does not directly address the parents’ concern. It also does not provide reassurance or information about why the bedwetting might be occurring.

Choice C rationale

This response is empathetic and informative. It normalizes the child’s behavior by explaining that regression is common in hospitalized children. It also reassures the parents that the bedwetting is likely temporary and will improve as the child recovers.

Choice D rationale

While this response is empathetic, it does not directly address the parents’ concern about the bedwetting. It also personalizes the situation by bringing the nurse’s own children into the conversation, which is generally not recommended in professional healthcare communication.

The correct order of Erikson’s stages of growth is B, D, A, C.